YOUR VOICE: COMFORT AND EFFECTIVENESS WITH LIVE READINGS AND RADIO
APPEARANCES - TAUGHT BY MELANIE CHARTOFF

Discount for PALA, ALAP, Alameda, and IWOSC Members!


One of the best ways to market yourself is to market YOURSELF.  People
love to see and hear the words from the actual person who wrote them,
and, impressed by the personal touch, are more eager to purchase the
work.

But you have to be YOURSELF.  That is not always as easy as it sounds,
but improving is not as difficult as it may seem.  A radio appearance
or a book reading can enhance SALES, but an appearance that is dull,
off point, scattered or shy, can insure that the work will not be
purchased.

This workshop will show you how to improve your delivery, even if you
think it's perfect. And now is a great time, just before the next
IWOSC READS ITS OWN on January 31st. Let's make your public persona a
force that moves people to smiles, surprise, stepping up, AND shopping
for things you sell. Find and/or refine your VOCAL PRESENTATION STYLE.

WHEN:  Two Thursdays, January 14 and 21 at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: A Westside studio (you will be given the exact location when
you sign up)

COST:  $70 (for both workshops) with ALAMEDA, IWOSC, PALA, ALAP member
discount. ($100 is the full cost for the two workshops.)

TO RESERVE A SPACE: Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@....

SPACE WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 IWOSC VOICES PER CLASS, SO RESERVE SOON.
Deadline 4 p.m. Tuesday, January 12.

MELANIE CHARTOFF (melaniechartoff.com) has performed on stage, screen,
web, in cartoons and voice commercials and has taught others how to do
it for decades. She can unlock the secrets to your voice's success
quickly in her sessions. Utilizing Improvisation, voice and acting
exercises, and sheer common sense, you will move past �stuckness� to
connection in every public and private conversation.
(chartoffteaching.com)

ASSIGNMENT:
Prepare a one-minute piece of your favorite fictional material that
touches your heart or humors. Can you move others with your voice
alone? Other material will be assigned, and MP3's will be emailed with
Melanie�s notes for your review. (For your first class, we prefer you
not read your own material)

Questions and reservations: charmel444@...


THIS IS WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT THE WORKSHOP:

"As a voice acting instructor in Los Angeles, the most competitive
(talent-wise) city in the world, I advise my students to enhance their
performances by being adept at improv. Though there are many solid
improv teachers in L.A., Melanie Chartoff towers above the rest. Her
talent, credentials and passion for her craft are unequalled.
Studying with Melanie is an investment that pays off a hundred-fold.
Actors and non-actors alike come away from her classes with a sense of
confidence in their uniquely true presence on mike, on stage or in
life." �Marc Cashman, Producer, Instructor, Cashman Commercials

"It's uncanny how insightful Melanie is.  She pinpointed exactly what
I needed to work on, and her suggestions completely changed my life.
When I relaxed while hearing offers, stood up straight, and stopped
judging myself, not only did it affect my book talks and acting
performances, but now, the characters in my young adult novels are
more extroverted...and so am I!"   �Betsy Franco, author, actor,
mother of James Franco

"Melanie�s virtue as a teacher, and it�s a rare one, is that she
throws a magic light around her students, who then see themselves, and
get the world to see them, in a different way. Make no mistake: you
are going to be a deeper performer and a larger human being through
your study with Melanie."  �David Landau, author and publisher

"Without the guidance of Melanie Chartoff, my voice-over career would
literally still exist in the foggy depths of my imagination. Who knew
I'd become a copywriter�s devotee, vocally falling in love with
�connected opening lines,� �turning points,� �deal maker/breakers� and
�heartwarming endings�.... There's still work to do, but I'm on my
way!!!"  �Kirsty Meares, NY Actress, Voice Artist

"I guess I'm not disappearing, though a lot of now unnecessary
camouflage is.   Less, in this case, is most certainly more."  �Jim
Blair, Writer, Performer

"Melanie offers a refreshing approach to things. 'Get out of your
face' is such a great piece of advice!"  �Nina Goldschlager, Editor

"I'm truly grateful to study with someone as experienced, generous,
and talented as Melanie Chartoff.  Since working with her, I've been
led to my essential and true voice.  She has been my guide back to
me!  I'm now able to locate my most connected, intimate, and
vulnerable self.  I've finally returned home and it feels empowering
both for my career and life.  I'm excited to continue my creative
journey with her and recommend her highly."  �Tamara Bechara, NY Actress

"You gave me a key point in the previous lesson... that really helped
me evaluate the audition.... I made sure to vividly picture myself in
the situation, as well as talk to a specific person. They booked me
for another session next Thursday... And last night really helped my
confidence- I'm getting better at getting centered- when I got into
the booth this morning I had no butterflies, despite the producer,
director, engineer, etc., all throwing direction my way!"  �Ken Mundy,
Drummer, Actor

"Melanie, thank you for providing a great platform for learning.  You
have great enthusiasm and ability to break down the barriers. I have
performed in your class things I could never have done in front of a
group just eight weeks ago.  It was an experience I will never forget
and will strive to continue, polish and improve."  �Jerry Masten,
Masten & Associates, Manufacturers� Rep




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Join us for an interview with author Sue Ann Jaffarian on WinR (Writers in
Residence).  Anyone who comments on Sue Ann Jaffarian's interview through the
end of this week will be entered into a drawing for a free copy of her new
"Ghost a la Mode" book!

http://tinyurl.com/l4nlke

Jackie Vick

Check out this week's flash fiction story by Altadena writer D�sir�e
Zamorano:
http://rosecitysisters.blogspot.com/2009/12/31-alma-paramo.html

We need short-short stories for January and beyond. Check the
guidelines here:
http://www.rosecitysisters.com/submit.html




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"Adjectives and Adverbs" are the subject today of MK Johnston's tutoral.

http://tinyurl.com/l4nlke

IWOSC (The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents our November Panel Discussion:
Editors:  Don't Let The Books You Write Leave Home Without One!



 
Monday, November 23, 2009
7:30-9 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland Ave. (at Culver Blvd.), Culver City
Parking is FREE; enter on Culver Blvd.
IWOSC members FREE; $15 for non-members.
Deadline (if space permits) is 12:00 Noon on Monday, November 23.
Reserve seats by calling 1-877-79-WRITE (799-7483) or by emailing info@...
Networking to Follow Panel

 
Our November Panel of Expert Editors discusses how to make your work stronger,
more saleable, and potentially praiseworthy.
 
In this tight economy, it's harder to compete for a publisher's attention. Once
you've wrangled a book deal, there’s no guarantee you will get good editorial
help from the publishing house.
 
A well-edited book, prior to submission, greatly increases your chances of
standing out from the crowd.  Avoid common mistakes.  What to expect from an
editor.  Examples of editing/positioning ideas that have helped authors create
award-winning books.
 
Panelists include: Editors, Authors and Writing Coaches –
Roberta Edgar, Monica Faulkner, Ron Kenner, Lisa Marguerite Mora, Robin Quinn,
Flo Selfman.  

Moderator: Ina Hillebrandt - Author, Writing Coach, Editor, and Publisher.
 




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IWOSC (The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents: A Writer’s Survival Guide and Free Legal Clinic
 
 
Saturday, November, 21
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland (at Culver Boulevard), Culver City
Parking is FREE, enter on Culver
 
You’ve heard it before: "Don't trust anyone!"  Yet, during the process,
writers have to trust their material to dozens of people. In today’s new media
age, scam literary agents and disreputable editing services have cost writers
dearly.  Idea theft lawsuits are common.  What about legitimate
Print-on-Demand and self-publishing? Learn how to protect yourself from
fraudulent vanity publishing houses and not get ripped off!
 
Author and film/TV critic TELLY DAVIDSON will be interviewing top Hollywood
entertainment lawyers CHRISTINE VALADA and IWOSC’s own legal counsel, MICHAEL
S. KLEIN, on how to navigate these issues.
 
 
COST: $15 for members; $35 for non-members.  Reservations required.
Deadline 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20. Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@....
NOTE: If you reserve and cannot attend, please notify the IWOSC office at
info@....
 




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Mystery book and short story authors, Robert S. Levinson, Gay  Toltl Kinman
and Thomas B. Sawyer (moderated by Gayle Bartos-Pool) reveal  secrets about
writing plays and scripts in an article on my website. If you're  curious,
read it at:  _www.jackiehouchin.com_ (http://www.jackiehouchin.com/)

Jackie H.



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The Rose City Sisters is a flash fiction blog with a Pasadena twist.

Want to submit a story of up to 1,000 words? Read this:
http://www.rosecitysisters.com


Want to check out the story archive? Go here:
http://rosecitysisters.blogspot.com




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GETTING THE MOST OUT OF WORKING WITH BOOKSTORES

PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES-November Program
THIS Monday, November 16, 2009, 7:00 PM

Whether your books are for adults or for children, are you getting
the most out of your booksignings/bookstore appearances? Do you know
how to grab an event coordinator's attention? Do you know what event
coordinators are looking for?

What kinds of program are bookstores looking for? What kinds of
programs bring in the best attendance? What kind of publicity should
you do for the event? How far in advance should you schedule your
event? What can you do to improve your relationship with L.A.
bookstores?

Join us at the November 16, 2009, meeting and learn the answers to
these questions and more from our very special guests and experts.
Bring your questions about this much‑requested subject.

Learn tips from the pros on how to approach bookstores, get their
attention and have a successful event.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS
JOHN SCHATZEL, Community Relations Manager, Barnes & Noble, Santa Monica
LITA WEISSMAN, Events Marketing Manager, Borders
MAUREEN PALACIOS, Once Upon A Time Bookstore (children's bookstore)

DATE: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2009

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Felicia Mahood Senior Center
11338 Santa Monica Blvd., West L.A.
(About 3 blocks west of the 405. Parking
is available on the street or in the public
lot on the corner of Corinth and Iowa.)
NOTE: Entrance to the meeting is through the
Center's parking lot on Corinth‑‑the third
door into the building‑‑past the black gate.

COST: $5.00 for PALA members
$15.00 for nonmembers

QUESTIONS: Sharon Goldinger, Program Chair,
pplspeak@..., 949‑581‑6190

Remember to visit our Web site at www.pa‑la.org.

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IWOSC
(The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents its November Panel
Editors – Don’t Let The Books You Write Leave Home Without One!
Our Panel of Expert Editors Tells You How to Make Your Work Stronger, More
Saleable, and Potentially Praiseworthy
 
 
 
Monday, November 23, 2009
7:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building 
4117 Overland Ave., (at Culver Blvd.)
Culver City 
Free Parking (enter at Culver Blvd.)
 
 
Realistically, in this tight economy, it's harder and harder to compete for a
publisher's attention. Once you've finally wrangled a book deal, there’s no
guarantee you will get good editorial help from the publishing house.
 
Having a well-edited book, prior to submission, greatly increases your chances
of standing out from the crowd.  IWOSC’s November panel of expert editors
will share tips on:
 
Common mistakes writers make and how to correct them
How editors work with you to help structure your book
What to look for in an editor
How to work with an editor
Examples of editing/positioning ideas that have helped authors create
award-winning books
 
Panel of experts includes:
 
RON KENNER, author, former metro staff writer of The Los Angeles Times, and
widely published freelancer, Ron has been a newspaper, magazine, and book
editor. Since founding RKedit, http://www.rkedit.com, he has edited more than 75
published books. Ron is the editor of “Orléans Embrace with The Secret
Gardens of the Vieux Carré,” which won 2007’s Benjamin Franklin gold medals
for Best First Book nonfiction and Best New Voice nonfiction. Editor of “Ruins
of Grandeur,” 2009 IPPY Silver medal winner, tied for
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller, and editor of the 2009 Hollywood Book Festival winner
(unpublished category) for the just-published novel “Depth of Deceit.” He
provided editing for the 2009 Eric Hoffer finalist (Business) “Billion Dollar
Solution,” and edited Derek Parra’s “Reflections in the Ice: Inside the
Heart and Mind of an Olympic Champion,” the 2004 Ben Franklin Gold medal
winner for Autobiography/Memoir. Books edited by Ron
  have also received Nautilus, National Best Book, Next Generation Indie, DIY,
and other honors. He collaborated on two nonfiction books scheduled for 2010.
  
FLO SELFMAN, owner of Selfman & Others PR, Flo has handled celebrities, theatre
and arts events, as well as book and author tours for more than twenty years. 
A self-proclaimed “professional nit-picker,” Flo gets the bugs out of
scripts, manuscripts, and other business and professional documents.  It’s
all part of her “quest to save the wandering apostrophe.”  A certified
teacher, she also conducts lively grammar and punctuation review classes for
adults.  This is her sixth year as president of Independent Writers of Southern
California (IWOSC), a nonprofit organization of freelance writers.
http://www.iwosc.org, http://www.wordsalamode.com 
 
ROBERTA EDGAR is co-author of “Think Yourself Smokeless” and co-founder and
writer/editor of Sixty is Sexy Now, Inc., http://www.sixtyissexynow.com, an
online community for baby boomers and beyond. For over 20 years, in addition to
writing screenplays and treatments, Roberta has been ghostwriting and editing
nonfiction books, particularly memoirs and autobiographies. She blogs on
journaling and memoir, http://www.robertaedgar.wordpress.com, and writes
articles, web content, biographical profiles, query letters, and a wide range of
business material. A graduate of UCLA's Department of English, she is current
Vice President of IWOSC, and partners with Flo Selfman on
http://www.wordsalamode.com 
 
ROBIN QUINN is an editor of over 250 books including the best-selling “The
Detox Solution,” the award-winning “Soul-Full Eating” and the newly
released “Celebrity Leverage”.. She has more than two decades of experience
in book publishing. She is a highly successful editor of health, nutrition,
spirituality, self-help books, memoirs and novels. Her work spans from book
development to the final polish. “Great attitude, amazing talent!” says
Patricia Fitzgerald, author of “The Detox Solution.” 
http://www.writingandediting.biz
 
MONICA FAULKNER, PhD, is an author and editor.  She has more than two decades
of experience guiding fiction and nonfiction authors to maximize the potential
of their publishing projects, both creatively and commercially. She helps
clients plan and create long-term careers, and is proactive about linking them
with agents and publishers. Editor of the award-winning “The Mindful Hiker,”
she offers every level of editorial guidance, from developmental editing to
proofreading. A sought-after speaker at writers groups and conferences, she also
offers consulting services to authors who wish to self-publish and are seeking
one-stop editorial, project management, marketing, and speaking-career guidance
for their publishing projects.
http://www.monicafaulkner.com,
http://www.laeditorsandwritersgroup.com/monica_faulkner.html,
http://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/MonicaFaulkner
  
LISA MARGUERITE MORA is a freelance editor, prize-winning poet and writing
teacher. Some of her many credits include poetry and prose published in Rattle,
ONTHEBUS, and Literary Mama. In 2008 she was the second place poetry prize
winner for Blue Mountain Arts. Lisa has taught creative writing in workshops at
California State University Los Angeles, West Los Angeles College Creative
Writers Club, and the Los Angeles Public Library. She is an instructor at Santa
Monica College Community Services, and also teaches private workshops on writing
and editing at the Electric Lodge in Venice. 
http://www.barringtoneditorial.com
 
MODERATOR: INA HILLEBRANDT is an author, publisher, writing coach, and editor.
Known for her memoir classes and guide, “How to Write Your Memoir.”
Hillebrandt's first book, “Pawprints,” received editor Hannah Liebman's fine
touch prior to publication, a step the author has been grateful she took ever
since. Launched at the L.A. Zoo, “Pawprints” led the author to TV
appearances and a literacy program titled Pawprints-Literacy Plus. The book,
along with Hillebrandt's memoir, “Students’ Stories from the Heart,” v. 2,
were both named bestsellers on Amazon.com. http://www.inaspawprints.com
 
Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland Ave. (corner of Culver Blvd.), FREE
parking. 
7:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m..  Cost is: Free for members, $15.00 for non-members. 
Reservations required.  Deadline is noon, Monday, day of event (November 23). 
Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@....  NOTE: If you reserve and cannot
attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982. 
#####




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IWOSC
(The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents its November Seminar
Don’t Get Scammed!  A Writer’s Survival Guide and Free Legal Clinic
 
 
Saturday, November 21, 2009
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building 
4117 Overland Ave. (at Culver Blvd.)
Culver City 
Free Parking (enter from Culver Blvd.)
 
"Don't trust anyone" goes the longtime maxim of Hollywood and New York
publishing.  Yet today, writers have to trust their material and ideas to
dozens of people - agents, acquisitions editors, and development
professionals.  Over the past decade, scam literary agents and agencies and
disreputable editing services have cost writers tens of thousands of dollars. 
In today’s online and new-media age, “idea theft” lawsuits are common. 
How can writers who choose the self-publishing route best protect their books,
as well as their pocketbooks?  How can a writer tell "the wheat from the
chaff"?  How can writers be sure that they won't get ripped off? 
 
Author and published film/TV critic (and IWOSC member) TELLY DAVIDSON will be
interviewing top Hollywood entertainment lawyers CHRISTINE VALADA and (IWOSC'S
own legal counsel) MICHAEL S. KLEIN on how to navigate these issues, including:
 
Bad literary agents -- how to tell incompetent scam agents from the good ones
 
Editing Services -- The Good and the Bad
 
Legitimate POD (Print-On-Demand) and self-publishing businesses, versus
fraudulent vanity publishing houses
 
How to Protect Your Ideas -- and Avoid Idea Theft!
 
Although we cannot offer extensively tailored "free legal advice" on an
individual basis, there will be plenty of time set aside for Q&A on your
issues.
 
CHRISTINE VALADA is an experienced entertainment and intellectual-property
attorney in Los Angeles.  In the past, she has served on IWOSC'S annual Agents
Day panels, and for six years was Legal Counsel for the Science Fiction Writers
of America's www.sfwa.org and an active contributor to their "Writer Beware"
service (www.writerbeware.com).  An avid photographer, Christine has taught
photography at the college level, and is actively involved in the comics world,
along with her husband Len Wein.  She has conducted and served on numerous
legal clinics and panels on subjects relating to intellectual property and
fraud/abuse cases in Hollywood and publishing.
 
 
MICHAEL S. KLEIN is a senior partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Klein &
Weisz and is Legal Counsel for IWOSC.  After graduating Summa Cum Laude and
being elected to Phi Beta Kappa from Indiana University, he received his law
degree at Yale.  He has served as a Board Member for the Beverly Hills Bar
Association, the State Bar of California, and the First Amendment commission of
the ACLU.  He has spoken on the subject of civil liberties and the First
Amendment on CNN and PBS, and at Pepperdine University, Loyola University Law
School, and Southwestern University Law School.  He has been an IWOSC member
since its founding in 1982 and has offered special prices and reduced rates for
IWOSC members' legal work and consultation. 
 
Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland Avenue (corner of Culver Blvd.), Free
parking. 
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Cost is: $15.00 for members, $35.00 for non-members. 
Reservations required.  Deadline 4 p.m. Friday prior to event (November 20). 
Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@... .  NOTE: If you reserve and
cannot attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982. 
#####




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IWOSC’s monthly drop-in satellite sessions are free and open to all
writers—both members and non-members.  Bring your writing ideas, problems,
questions, and complaints. Receive support, laughs, juicy conversation, and
plenty of networking opportunities! See www.iwosc.org for future dates and
locations.
 
Ventura County Satellite
 
IWOSC’s new Satellite meets at the Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks on
the 2nd Thursday of the month, 10 a.m. to noon. Dawn Wood (aubewood@...)
hosts. Reservations are required, refreshments are $2, and a dress code
prohibits jeans and shorts. Bring your writing issues and questions for
discussion! Check out their website: http://iwoscventura.ning.com/
 
Thursday, November 12, Thursday, December 10
 
San Fernando Valley Satellite
 
The Valley Satellite meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 10 to 11:30
a.m. at Barnes & Noble in Encino, offering writers a chance to participate in a
free-flowing exchange of ideas about their work and the writing business. Ron
Vazzano (ronvazzano@...) hosts.
 
Wednesday, November 11, Wednesday, December 9
 
Westside Satellite
 
This Satellite varies its meetings with speakers, talk about the business of
writing, and members reading their work. They meet monthly on the 2nd Thursday
from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Dolores Restaurant. Contact Vickey Kalambakal,
Vickey@... .
 
Thursday, November 12 (guest speaker!), Thursday, December 10
 
Pasadena/Altadena Satellite
 
Join writers in the San Gabriel Valley area at The Coffee Gallery in Altadena,
2nd Friday of the month, from 8:30-10 a.m. This is a joint meeting of IWOSC
Pasadena Satellite and the Alameda Writers Group SIG. Contact Jane Neff Rollins
(JaneNRollins@...) 
 
Friday, November 13, Friday, December 11
 
Orange County Satellite
 
The opportunity to meet fellow Orange County writers is brought to you by host
Kurt Bensworth at the Katie Wheeler Library in Tustin on the 3rd Tuesday of each
month, 7:30 p.m. (ksbensworth@...)
 
Tuesday, November 17, Tuesday, December 15
 
Meetings are subject to change!  Check updated website (www.IWOSC.org) and our
email announcements
 




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Visit one of your NON-virtual book stores today - big chain or favorite
independent -  and buy at least one book, if you can. Support them,  your
libraries, and the courageous authors who write the books that fill  them.

It's National Book Store Day!  See article at _http://j.mp/4PV6J_
(http://j.mp/4PV6J)

Jackie
_www.jackiehouchin.com_ (http://www.jackiehouchin.com)


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

IWOSC
(The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents its November Panel
Editors – Don’t Let The Books You Write Leave Home Without One!
Our Panel of Expert Editors Tells You How to Make Your Work Stronger, More
Saleable, and Potentially Praiseworthy
 
 
 
Monday, November 23, 2009
7:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building 
4117 Overland Ave., (at Culver Blvd.)
Culver City 
Free Parking (enter at Culver Blvd.)
 
 
Realistically, in this tight economy, it's harder and harder to compete for a
publisher's attention. Once you've finally wrangled a book deal, there’s no
guarantee you will get good editorial help from the publishing house.
 
Having a well-edited book, prior to submission, greatly increases your chances
of standing out from the crowd.  IWOSC’s November panel of expert editors
will share tips on:
 
Common mistakes writers make and how to correct them
How editors work with you to help structure your book
What to look for in an editor
How to work with an editor
Examples of editing/positioning ideas that have helped authors create
award-winning books
 
Panel of experts includes:
 
RON KENNER, author, former metro staff writer of The Los Angeles Times, and
widely published freelancer, Ron has been a newspaper, magazine, and book
editor. Since founding RKedit, http://www.rkedit.com, he has edited more than 75
published books. Ron is the editor of “Orléans Embrace with The Secret
Gardens of the Vieux Carré,” which won 2007’s Benjamin Franklin gold medals
for Best First Book nonfiction and Best New Voice nonfiction. Editor of “Ruins
of Grandeur,” 2009 IPPY Silver medal winner, tied for
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller, and editor of the 2009 Hollywood Book Festival winner
(unpublished category) for the just-published novel “Depth of Deceit.” He
provided editing for the 2009 Eric Hoffer finalist (Business) “Billion Dollar
Solution,” and edited Derek Parra’s “Reflections in the Ice: Inside the
Heart and Mind of an Olympic Champion,” the 2004 Ben Franklin Gold medal
winner for Autobiography/Memoir. Books edited by Ron
  have also received Nautilus, National Best Book, Next Generation Indie, DIY,
and other honors. He collaborated on two nonfiction books scheduled for 2010.
  
FLO SELFMAN, owner of Selfman & Others PR, Flo has handled celebrities, theatre
and arts events, as well as book and author tours for more than twenty years. 
A self-proclaimed “professional nit-picker,” Flo gets the bugs out of
scripts, manuscripts, and other business and professional documents.  It’s
all part of her “quest to save the wandering apostrophe.”  A certified
teacher, she also conducts lively grammar and punctuation review classes for
adults.  This is her sixth year as president of Independent Writers of Southern
California (IWOSC), a nonprofit organization of freelance writers.
http://www.iwosc.org, http://www.wordsalamode.com 
 
ROBERTA EDGAR is co-author of “Think Yourself Smokeless” and co-founder and
writer/editor of Sixty is Sexy Now, Inc., http://www.sixtyissexynow.com, an
online community for baby boomers and beyond. For over 20 years, in addition to
writing screenplays and treatments, Roberta has been ghostwriting and editing
nonfiction books, particularly memoirs and autobiographies. She blogs on
journaling and memoir, http://www.robertaedgar.wordpress.com, and writes
articles, web content, biographical profiles, query letters, and a wide range of
business material. A graduate of UCLA's Department of English, she is current
Vice President of IWOSC, and partners with Flo Selfman on
http://www.wordsalamode.com 
 
ROBIN QUINN is an editor of over 250 books including the best-selling “The
Detox Solution,” the award-winning “Soul-Full Eating” and the newly
released “Celebrity Leverage”.. She has more than two decades of experience
in book publishing. She is a highly successful editor of health, nutrition,
spirituality, self-help books, memoirs and novels. Her work spans from book
development to the final polish. “Great attitude, amazing talent!” says
Patricia Fitzgerald, author of “The Detox Solution.” 
http://www.writingandediting.biz
 
MONICA FAULKNER, PhD, is an author and editor.  She has more than two decades
of experience guiding fiction and nonfiction authors to maximize the potential
of their publishing projects, both creatively and commercially. She helps
clients plan and create long-term careers, and is proactive about linking them
with agents and publishers. Editor of the award-winning “The Mindful Hiker,”
she offers every level of editorial guidance, from developmental editing to
proofreading. A sought-after speaker at writers groups and conferences, she also
offers consulting services to authors who wish to self-publish and are seeking
one-stop editorial, project management, marketing, and speaking-career guidance
for their publishing projects.
http://www.monicafaulkner.com,
http://www.laeditorsandwritersgroup.com/monica_faulkner.html,
http://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/MonicaFaulkner
  
LISA MARGUERITE MORA is a freelance editor, prize-winning poet and writing
teacher. Some of her many credits include poetry and prose published in Rattle,
ONTHEBUS, and Literary Mama. In 2008 she was the second place poetry prize
winner for Blue Mountain Arts. Lisa has taught creative writing in workshops at
California State University Los Angeles, West Los Angeles College Creative
Writers Club, and the Los Angeles Public Library. She is an instructor at Santa
Monica College Community Services, and also teaches private workshops on writing
and editing at the Electric Lodge in Venice. 
http://www.barringtoneditorial.com
 
MODERATOR: INA HILLEBRANDT is an author, publisher, writing coach, and editor.
Known for her memoir classes and guide, “How to Write Your Memoir.”
Hillebrandt's first book, “Pawprints,” received editor Hannah Liebman's fine
touch prior to publication, a step the author has been grateful she took ever
since. Launched at the L.A. Zoo, “Pawprints” led the author to TV
appearances and a literacy program titled Pawprints-Literacy Plus. The book,
along with Hillebrandt's memoir, “Students’ Stories from the Heart,” v. 2,
were both named bestsellers on Amazon.com. http://www.inaspawprints.com
 
Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland Ave. (corner of Culver Blvd.), FREE
parking. 
7:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m..  Cost is: Free for members, $15.00 for non-members. 
Reservations required.  Deadline is noon, Monday, day of event (November 23). 
Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@....  NOTE: If you reserve and cannot
attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982. 
#####




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IWOSC
(The Independent Writers of Southern California)
Presents its November Seminar
Don’t Get Scammed!  A Writer’s Survival Guide and Free Legal Clinic
 
 
Saturday, November 21, 2009
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building 
4117 Overland Ave. (at Culver Blvd.)
Culver City 
Free Parking (enter from Culver Blvd.)
 
"Don't trust anyone" goes the longtime maxim of Hollywood and New York
publishing.  Yet today, writers have to trust their material and ideas to
dozens of people - agents, acquisitions editors, and development
professionals.  Over the past decade, scam literary agents and agencies and
disreputable editing services have cost writers tens of thousands of dollars. 
In today’s online and new-media age, “idea theft” lawsuits are common. 
How can writers who choose the self-publishing route best protect their books,
as well as their pocketbooks?  How can a writer tell "the wheat from the
chaff"?  How can writers be sure that they won't get ripped off? 
 
Author and published film/TV critic (and IWOSC member) TELLY DAVIDSON will be
interviewing top Hollywood entertainment lawyers CHRISTINE VALADA and (IWOSC'S
own legal counsel) MICHAEL S. KLEIN on how to navigate these issues, including:
 
Bad literary agents -- how to tell incompetent scam agents from the good ones
 
Editing Services -- The Good and the Bad
 
Legitimate POD (Print-On-Demand) and self-publishing businesses, versus
fraudulent vanity publishing houses
 
How to Protect Your Ideas -- and Avoid Idea Theft!
 
Although we cannot offer extensively tailored "free legal advice" on an
individual basis, there will be plenty of time set aside for Q&A on your
issues.
 
CHRISTINE VALADA is an experienced entertainment and intellectual-property
attorney in Los Angeles.  In the past, she has served on IWOSC'S annual Agents
Day panels, and for six years was Legal Counsel for the Science Fiction Writers
of America's www.sfwa.org and an active contributor to their "Writer Beware"
service (www.writerbeware.com).  An avid photographer, Christine has taught
photography at the college level, and is actively involved in the comics world,
along with her husband Len Wein.  She has conducted and served on numerous
legal clinics and panels on subjects relating to intellectual property and
fraud/abuse cases in Hollywood and publishing.
 
 
MICHAEL S. KLEIN is a senior partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Klein &
Weisz and is Legal Counsel for IWOSC.  After graduating Summa Cum Laude and
being elected to Phi Beta Kappa from Indiana University, he received his law
degree at Yale.  He has served as a Board Member for the Beverly Hills Bar
Association, the State Bar of California, and the First Amendment commission of
the ACLU.  He has spoken on the subject of civil liberties and the First
Amendment on CNN and PBS, and at Pepperdine University, Loyola University Law
School, and Southwestern University Law School.  He has been an IWOSC member
since its founding in 1982 and has offered special prices and reduced rates for
IWOSC members' legal work and consultation. 
 
Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland Avenue (corner of Culver Blvd.), Free
parking. 
10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Cost is: $15.00 for members, $35.00 for non-members. 
Reservations required.  Deadline 4 p.m. Friday prior to event (November 20). 
Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@... .  NOTE: If you reserve and
cannot attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982. 
#####




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IMPROVISATION � A Tool for Writers� Creativity

Taught by Melanie Chartoff

Three Tuesdays, November 3,10, and 17 at 7:00 pm,
Starting THIS TUESDAY

Co-sponsored by IWOSC

Open up your imagination! Come out from behind that computer. Play
your way past any creative blocks to your fullest expression! Actively
engage your body in non-stressful games, and translate that to your
work, in a one-time three-week introduction to the Fundamentals of the
Fun, Fine Art of Improvisation as it applies to writers.

Taught by Melanie Chartoff (melaniechartoff.com), a pro who's applied
these techniques in all media for decades, this class will teach
skills like silly spontaneity, seamless collaborating, charismatic
presence, intuitive observation, intimate response, while you
spontaneously playwright in-the-moment, on your feet with other
playful strangers.

LAUGH WHILE YOU LEARN

�Increase your capacity for instant connection, intimate co-creation,
and enjoyable interactivity. Come out from behind that computer.

�Unlock the potential for humor in your writing.

�Play your way past any creative blocks to your fullest expression!

�Free up your shyness and begin to learn how to enjoy your TV and
radio appearances as well as your book readings. Your enjoyment will
lead to better performance and better results.

�Apply these tools in your acting, writing, even your promotion.

MELANIE CHARTOFF is an actress (see melaniechartoff.com), humor
columnist (see jewlarious.com), screenwriter, and teacher of voice
over and improvisational acting (see chartoffteaching.com). From her
decades of success on Broadway, in TV series and films, and in the
writers' rooms of various shows, she's developed specific techniques
inspired by the best of her teachers (Viola Spolin, Paul Sills, Uta
Hagen, Stella Adler, Robert McKee), and directors (Ed Zwick, Des
MacAnoff, Sir Peter Hall, Frank Dunlop) to uncover the true point of
view most uniquely expressed by each student's talents.

Her marriage of writing, acting, play therapy and improvisation
exercises, done on one's feet in collaboration with others, has had
great impact on her students, as evidenced by their words below. In
her classes, each student moves from the theoretical to the
experiential, realizing, in action, their essential behavioral truth.

DATE: Three Tuesdays, NOVEMBER 3,10 and 17, 2009.

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: A private residence in West Los Angeles. The address will be
given to registrants.

COST: $150.00 for the program of THREE workshops, members of PALA,
ALAP, and
IWOSC receive a 30% discount, to bring the cost to $105 for the three
workshops.

QUESTIONS: GaryYoung, artsy12@....

To view testimonials from writers, actors, agents, and others, see
below. And go to chartoffteaching.com for more info. Email questions
to charmel444@...

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

“IMPROVISATION – A Tool for Writers’ Creativity”
A 3-Week Workshop Taught by Melanie Chartoff
Tuesdays, November 3, 10, 17
Co-Sponsored by IWOSC
 
Open up your imagination! Come out from behind that computer. Play your way past
any creative blocks to your fullest expression!  Actively engage your body in
non-stressful games, and translate that to your work, in a one-time, three-week
introduction to the Fundamentals of the Fun, Fine Art of Improvisation as it
applies to writers.
Taught by Melanie Chartoff, a pro who's applied these techniques in all media
for decades, this class will teach skills like silly spontaneity, seamless
collaborating, charismatic presence, intuitive observation, and  intimate
response, while you spontaneously playwright in-the-moment, on your feet with
other playful strangers.
 LAUGH WHILE YOU LEARN!   
•Increase your capacity for instant connection, intimate co-creation, and
enjoyable interactivity.  Come out from behind that computer.  
• Unlock the potential for humor in your writing.
•Play your way past any creative blocks to your fullest expression!
• Free up your shyness and begin to learn how to enjoy your TV and radio
appearances as well as your book readings.  Your enjoyment will lead to better
performance and better results.


• Apply these tools in your acting, writing, even your promotion.
MELANIE CHARTOFF is an actress (see melaniechartoff.com), humor columnist
(see jewlarious.com), screenwriter, and teacher of voice-over and
improvisational acting (see chartoffteaching.com).  From her decades of
success on Broadway, in TV series and films, and in the writers rooms of various
shows, she's developed specific techniques inspired by the best of her teachers
(Viola Spolin, Paul Sills, Uta Hagen, Stella Adler, Robert McKee), and directors
(Ed Zwick, Des MacAnuff, Sir Peter Hall, Frank Dunlop) to uncover the true point
of view most uniquely expressed by each student's talents.   
Her marriage of writing, acting, play therapy and improvisation exercises, done
on one's feet in collaboration with others, has had great impact on her
students, as evidenced by their words below. In her classes, each student moves
from the theoretical to the experiential, realizing, in action, their essential
behavioral truth.
 ---------
The Independent Writers of Southern California (IWOSC) co-sponsors Melanie
Chartoff’s workshop geared for writers, using these improvisation techniques,
beginning Tuesday, November 3, for three Tuesday evenings in West Los Angeles. 
WHEN: Three Tuesdays, November 3, 10, and 17 
TIME: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
 
WHERE: A private location in West Los Angeles. You will be given the address
when you reserve a space in the workshop. 
COST: $150 for the set of three workshops; $105 for current members of IWOSC,
PALA, ALAP
For more information, please contact Gary Young (artsy12@...).
 For reservations, please call (877)799-7483 or e-mail info@.... 
Reservation deadline is October 31.
Space is limited; reserve now.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
- 
To view testimonials from writers, actors, agents, and others, see below. 
And go to chartoffteaching.com for more info.
#####
 




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GETTING THE MOST OUT OF WORKING WITH BOOKSTORES

PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES-November Program
Monday, November 16, 2009, 7:00 PM

Whether your books are for adults or for children, are you getting
the most out of your booksignings/bookstore appearances? Do you know
how to grab an event coordinator's attention? Do you know what event
coordinators are looking for?

What kinds of program are bookstores looking for? What kinds of
programs bring in the best attendance? What kind of publicity should
you do for the event? How far in advance should you schedule your
event? What can you do to improve your relationship with L.A.
bookstores?

Join us at the November 16, 2009, meeting and learn the answers to
these questions and more from our very special guests and experts.
Bring your questions about this much‑requested subject.

Learn tips from the pros on how to approach bookstores, get their
attention and have a successful event.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS
John Schatzel, Community Relations Manager, Barnes & Noble, Santa Monica
Lita Weissman, Events Marketing Manager, Borders
Tyson Cornell, Director of Marketing & Publicity, Book Soup

DATE: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2009

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Felicia Mahood Senior Center
11338 Santa Monica Blvd., West L.A.
(About 3 blocks west of the 405. Parking
is available on the street or in the public
lot on the corner of Corinth and Iowa.)
NOTE: Entrance to the meeting is through the
Center's parking lot on Corinth‑‑the third
door into the building‑‑past the black gate.

COST: $5.00 for PALA members
$15.00 for nonmembers

QUESTIONS: Sharon Goldinger, Program Chair,
pplspeak@..., 949‑581‑6190

Remember to visit our Web site at www.pa‑la.org.


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IWOSC (The Independent Writers of Southern California) presents
a panel discussion:
“Ghostwriters Emerge To Discuss Their Craft”
 
Monday, October 26, 2009
7:30-9 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland (at Culver Boulevard), Culver City
Parking is FREE, enter on Culver
 
Considering ghostwriting? Our October program brings professional “ghosts”
out from the shadows to discuss why they trade visibility as a writer. Tips, and
the pitfalls you’ll want to avoid. How does a writer first collaborate with
the client and then capture their voice? Can your ego handle the discreet role
of the ghostwriter? How a ghost supports a client in the publishing process.
 
COST: $15 for members; $35 for non-members.  Reservations required. Deadline
12:00, Monday 10/26. Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@.... NOTE: If you
reserve and cannot attend, please notify IWOSC at info@....
 
 




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IMPROVISATION � A Tool for WRITERS� Creativity

Taught by Melanie Chartoff

Co-sponsored by the Independent Writers of Southern California

Tuesdays, November 3,10, and 17 at 7:00 pm


Open up your imagination! Come out from behind that computer. Play
your way past any creative blocks to your fullest expression! Actively
engage your body in non-stressful games, and translate that to your
work, in a one-time three-week introduction to the Fundamentals of the
Fun, Fine Art of Improvisation as it applies to writers.

Taught by Melanie Chartoff (melaniechartoff.com), a pro who's applied
these techniques in all media for decades, this class will teach
skills like silly spontaneity, seamless collaborating, charismatic
presence, intuitive observation, intimate response, while you
spontaneously playwright in-the-moment, on your feet with other
playful strangers.

LAUGH WHILE YOU LEARN

�Increase your capacity for instant connection, intimate co-creation,
and enjoyable interactivity. Come out from behind that computer.

� Unlock the potential for humor in your writing.

�Play your way past any creative blocks to your fullest expression!

� Free up your shyness and begin to learn how to enjoy your TV and
radio appearances as well as your book readings. Your enjoyment will
lead to better performance and better results.

� Apply these tools in your acting, writing, even your promotion.

MELANIE CHARTOFF is an actress (see melaniechartoff.com), humor
columnist (see jewlarious.com), screenwriter, and teacher of voice
over and improvisational acting (see chartoffteaching.com). From her
decades of success on Broadway, in TV series and films, and in the
writers' rooms of various shows, she's developed specific techniques
inspired by the best of her teachers (Viola Spolin, Paul Sills, Uta
Hagen, Stella Adler, Robert McKee), and directors (Ed Zwick, Des
MacAnoff, Sir Peter Hall, Frank Dunlop) to uncover the true point of
view most uniquely expressed by each student's talents.

Her marriage of writing, acting, play therapy and improvisation
exercises, done on one's feet in collaboration with others, has had
great impact on her students, as evidenced by their words below. In
her classes, each student moves from the theoretical to the
experiential, realizing, in action, their essential behavioral truth.

DATE: Three Tuesdays, NOVEMBER 3,10 and 17, 2009.

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: A private residence in West Los Angeles. The address will be
given to registrants.

COST: $105.00 for the program of THREE workshops, representing a PALA
discount of $45 off the retail price of $150.00.

QUESTIONS: GaryYoung, artsy12@....

To view testimonials from writers, actors, agents, and others, see
below. And go to chartoffteaching.com for more info. Email questions
to charmel444@...







Gary Young
Executive Director, Lifetime Achievement Foundation
(lifetimeachievement.org)
President, Publishers Association of Los Angeles (pa-la.org)
Director of Professional Development, Independent Writers of S CA
(iwosc.org)
Vice-Chair, Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights (laplaywrights.org)


LOSS and FOUND: Surviving the Loss of a Young Partner,
by Gary and Kathy Young (Calabash Press, $14.95).  www.lossandfound.com
On Hold: The MYTH of Male Maturity, a one-person show
written and performed by Gary Young, Hollywood, soon





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IWOSC—THE INDEPENDENT WRITERS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
www.iwosc.org
Helping writers succeed since 1982!
P.O. Box 34279 • Los Angeles, CA 90034     877-79WRITE (799-7483)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
------
 
 
Ghost Stories, Ghostwriters Emerge To Discuss Their Craft
 
 
Monday, October 26, 2009
7:30-9 p.m.  
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland  Ave. (at Culver Blvd.), Culver City
Parking is FREE; enter on Culver Blvd.
IWOSC members FREE; $15 for non-members.
Deadline (if space permits) is 12:00 Noon on October 26.
Reserve seats by calling 1-877-79-WRITE (799-7483) or by emailing info@...
Networking to Follow Panel
                         
 
Have you ever considered ghostwriting? For IWOSC’s October program,
professional “ghosts” will come out from the shadows to discuss why they
sometimes trade visibility as a writer for the projects they receive. In
addition, a co-author with a new book will share why she chose that path.
We’ll cover tips as well as a look at the pitfalls you’ll want to avoid. How
does a writer collaborate with the client to gather the best material? How do
you capture their voice? Can your ego handle the discreet role of the
ghostwriter? The panel will also explore how a ghost or collaborator can help
support a client in the publishing process.
 
Free for IWOSC members, $15 for nonmembers
 
Panelists:
 
Michael Levin: A New York Times best-selling author, Michael has written,
co-written or authored more than 80 books. A highly successful ghostwriter of
numerous titles including biography, business, sports and celebrity books.
 
Claudia Suzanne: Author of “This Business of Books” and “Secrets of a
Ghostwriter”; Founder, the Ghostwriter Certification Training program; ghost
of over 100 titles including a New York Times best-selling nonfiction and two
award-winning novels.
 
Idelle Davidson: Co-author of the ground-breaking “Your Brain after Chemo,”
written with UCLA’s Daniel Silverman, MD. Jane Brody, health columnist for the
New York Times, calls it an “excellent new book.”
 
Ellen Violette: Known as the eBook Coach, Ellen will discuss how ghostwriters
could incorporate ebooks as a part of their approach to developing projects for
their clients.
 
Moderator:
 
Robin Quinn: Editor of over 250 books including the award-winning “Soul-Full
Eating”;  ghostwriter of eight titles including a health niche best-seller
and a classic men’s health title.
 
 
 
Cost: Free for IWOSC members; $15 non-members
 
Reservations Required: Deadline (if space permits) is noon, Monday, October 26.
Call (877)799-7483 or e-mail info@.... Note: If you reserve and can not
attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982.
 
#####




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DRAMAKAZE!!!

Crash Courses in the Art and Business of Playwriting!

THIS Saturday, October 24, 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM



Dramakaze, a daylong event with crash courses in the art and business of
playwriting, will be presented by the Alliance of Los Angeles
Playwrights (ALAP) THIS Saturday, October 24, at Cal State Northridge.
ALAP (LAPlaywrights.org) is one of the preeminent playwrights�
support organizations in the United States. The day includes an
exciting array of networking opportunities, workshops, and
entertainment. Just take a look!


Many workshops are open to all. The full schedule is listed below.

11:00 AM � 1:00 PM
�Director/ Dramatist Exchange.� (registration closed for this event)

1:00 � 2:00 PM BUSINESS WORKSHOPS
�The Self-Producing Playwright: Why and How to Produce Your Own
Plays,� conducted by Lisa Soland (OPEN TO ALL)

2:00 � 3:00 PM
�Sign Here: The ABCs of The Production Contract,� by Dick
Dotterer (OPEN TO ALL)

3:00 � 4:00 PM
�High Tech, High Yield: How to Sell Yourself Using the ALAP Website
and the Internet,� Conducted by Jonathan Dorf (OPEN TO ALL)

1:00 � 2:30 PM
ART WORKSHOPS �Diamond Chiseling: A Crash Course in Playwriting,�
conducted by Cecilia Fannon (registration closed for this event)

2:30 � 4:00 PM
�Writing the Solo Play,� Conducted by Susan Merson
(To register for this event, please email Dan Berkowitz at icimedia@...
).

4:15 PM
The 11th Annual ALAP Play Reading Festival (OPEN TO ALL)
including: �Pretty� by Dan Berkowitz; �Buck and
Bean� by Mary F. Casey; �Dinner a Deux� by Nance Crawford
; �Communication� by Thomas J. Misuraca; �The Truth in the
Trenches� by Michael Solomon; �Performance Anxiety� by Rom Watson.



DATE: THIS  SATURDAY, 24 OCTOBER 2009

HOURS: 11:00 AM until 5:30 PM

LOCATION: Nordhoff Hall, Cal State Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St,
Northridge CA 91330
Visit: http://www.csun.edu/maps/

Park in Lot B1, across from the Theatre Dept in Nordhoff Hall
(Note: obtain required paid parking pass from machines in lot)

COST: All Programs and Events Are FREE!

And wait--it gets better...
Any ALAP members who attend (and you can join the day of the event)
will be eligible to win a free copy of Final Draft, the world's
preeminent playwriting and screenwriting software, courtesy of sponsor
Final Draft, Inc., or one of a pair of $50 gift certificates from
sponsor The Writers Store, your source for all things writing.

SPONSORS: The Dramatists Guild Fund, Final Draft, Inc., and The
Writers Store

ALAP is a non-profit support and service organization for playwrights
with members all over Southern California and beyond. The Chairs of
the group are Dan Berkowitz and Jonathan Dorf. Publicity Director is
Gary Young.

For more information, please contact: LAPlaywrights.org

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES (pa-la.org) - OCTOBER 2009 Program

HOW TO MAKE AMAZON WORK MORE PROFITABLY
FOR YOU AND YOUR BOOKS

Monday, October 19, 7:00 pm

Do you know what marketing and sales opportunities are available at
Amazon--and how to profit from them?

How do you find out about these programs? Do some work better for
fiction books than nonfiction books? Which marketing programs are best
for you and your book?

Learn about these topics:
* setting up accounts * finding resources * making contact with Amazon
* keeping up with Amazon's changes * marketing on Amazon * using tags
* using customer reviews effectively * setting up your page * watching
availability, sales ranks and search results * earning commissions

If you want to learn how to evaluate which programs offer the best
opportunities for profit and exposure--resulting in a book that will
continue to sell with little ongoing effort--join us on October 19,
2009, to hear how one publisher learned about and tried Amazon's many
features, benefits, and programs.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER
LORI HANSON, founder and president of Shewolf Press and Learn2Balance,
is an award-winning author, speaker, singer and life balance
consultant. She shares her personal story and unique approach to
recovery from an eating disorder in her award-winning book "It Started
with Pop-Tarts . . . An Alternative Approach to Winning the Battle of
Bulimia." In "Teen Secrets to Surviving & Thriving: How to Deal with
Stress, Be Confident and Feel Great," she shares her Hot Pastry
Principles to empower teens with coping tools and help them avoid
addictive behaviors. Lori has appeared on local and national radio and
TV shows to bring awareness to the epidemic of eating disorders.

DATE: MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2009.

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Felicia Mahood Senior Center 11338 Santa Monica Blvd., West
L.A.
(About 3 blocks west of the 405. Parking is available on the street or
in the public lot on the corner of Corinth and Iowa.) NOTE: Entrance
to the meeting is through the Center's parking lot on Corinth--the
third door into the building--past the black gate.

COST: $5.00 for PALA members; $15.00 for nonmembers.

QUESTIONS: Sharon Goldinger, Program Chair, pplspeak@...,
949-581-6190.

Remember to visit our Web site for updates at www.pa- la.org.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

DRAMAKAZE!!!

Crash Courses in the Art and Business of Playwriting!

Saturday, October 24, 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM



The Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights has done it again! Dramakaze,
a daylong event with crash courses in the art and business of
playwriting, will be presented by the Alliance of Los Angeles
Playwrights (ALAP) on Saturday, October 24, at Cal State Northridge.
ALAP (LAPlaywrights.org) is one of the preeminent playwrights’
support organizations in the United States.

Los Angeles’ best playwrights, actors, directors, and other theatre
practitioners will come together to share their talent, their energy,
their dedication, and, of course, to further their careers.  The day
includes an exciting array of networking opportunities, workshops, and
entertainment.  Just take a look!



The full festival schedule is listed below.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
   ‘Director/ Dramatist Exchange.’
   Each participant gets two minutes to make a presentation, followed
by an hour of networking.
   LIMIT: 15 DIRECTORS/ 15 PLAYWRIGHTS


1:00 – 2:00 PM BUSINESS WORKSHOPS


   ’The Self-Producing Playwright: Why and How to Produce Your Own
Plays,’
   conducted by Lisa Soland (open to all)

2:00 – 3:00 PM
   ‘Sign Here: The ABCs of The Production Contract,’ by Dick
Dotterer (open to all)

3:00 – 4:00 PM
   ‘High Tech, High Yield: How to Sell Yourself Using the ALAP Website
and the Internet,’
Conducted by Jonathan Dorf (open to all)



1:00 – 2:30 PM
   ART WORKSHOPS

   ‘Diamond Chiseling: A Crash Course in Playwriting,’
conducted by Cecilia Fannon
   (LIMIT 10 PARTICIPANTS)

2:30 – 4:00 PM
   ‘Writing the Solo Play,’
Conducted by Susan Merson
(LIMIT 20 PARTICIPANTS).

4:15 PM
The 11th Annual ALAP Play Reading Festival
(open to all) including: “Pretty” by Dan Berkowitz; “Buck and
Bean” by Mary F. Casey; “Dinner a Deux” by Nance Crawford
; “Communication” by Thomas J. Misuraca; “The Truth in the
Trenches” by Michael Solomon; “Performance Anxiety” by Rom Watson.



Please note: The Business workshops and the Reading Festival are open
to all.



The Director/ Dramatist Exchange and the two Art workshops are
limited: you must notify ALAP if you wish to be included in any of
those. Participants will be chosen by lottery, with current ALAP
members and CSUN students having priority. To apply for any of those
three programs, send an email to DanB@... to be received
no later than 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 15! You will be notified
the following day of your status.



DATE: SATURDAY, 24 OCTOBER 2009




HOURS: 11:00 AM until 5:30 PM



LOCATION: Nordhoff Hall, Cal State Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St,
Northridge CA 91330
Visit: http://www.csun.edu/maps/

Park in Lot B1, across from the Theatre Dept in Nordhoff Hall
(Note: obtain required paid parking pass from machines in lot)





COST: All Programs and Events Are FREE!

   And wait--it gets better...
   Any ALAP members who attend (and you can join the day of the event)
will be eligible to win a free copy of Final Draft, the world's
preeminent playwriting and screenwriting software, courtesy of sponsor
Final Draft, Inc., or one of a pair of $50 gift certificates from
sponsor The Writers Store, your source for all things writing.



SPONSORS: The Dramatists Guild Fund, Final Draft, Inc., and The
Writers Store



ALAP is a non-profit support and service organization for playwrights
with members all over Southern California and beyond.  The Chairs of
the group are Dan Berkowitz and Jonathan Dorf.  Publicity Director is
Gary Young.



For more information, please contact: LAPlaywrights.org

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Writers,
    What does producer/director Eric Sherman know that enables him to be a
consultant to Universal Studios, Columbia Pictures and Paramount Pictures? Why
does published author Kelly Reno succeed in selling in every writing medium
she�s tried? Come to their seminar about selling your work.
    Sat, Nov 7th, 1pm, Celebrity Centre, 5930 Franklin Ave, Hollywood, 90028,
Room 101, $20.
Sincerely,
Becky Mate
Writer


----- Original Message -----
From: Kat Martell
To: prowritersgroup@...
Sent: 10/14/2009 4:35:29 PM
Subject: 9th Annual Arts Festival

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Writers,
   Watch a movie and have the structure points pointed out to you. Fun!
Becky Mate

----- Original Message -----
From: Kat Martell
To: prowritersgroup@...
Sent: 10/14/2009 4:33:12 PM
Subject: Oct 21st - An Evening with Jerry Maguire


The Celebrity Centre International Writers Association Presents:

�An Evening with Jerry Maguire�

As a follow up the the past two seminars: "The 3 Act Structure for Screenplays
and Novel," Executive Director David Bartlett will be showing Jerry Maguire and
is going to discuss major story points in the film. This will include an open
discussion with the audience attending. Jerry Maguire is one of the most well
written screenplays in the last few decades and demonstrates the 3 Act Structure
beautifully.

Award winning screenwriter and filmmaker David Bartlett has won 7 film festival
awards including screenwriting at the Houston International Film Festival. He is
a professional lecturer and teacher and has taught at the screenwriting Expo for
the last 4 years.


Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 7:00 PM

in the Theater at Celebrity Centre International

5930 Franklin Avenue

Hollywood, CA 90028

The seminar is $20 at the door, $15 for AWG members, and free to annual members
of the CCI Writers Association. A handout is included.



  To confirm, respond to prowritersgroup@... or call Kat Martell: (818)
220-0898

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There are very few seats left, so act now to reserve your place.
 
IWOSC seminar: How to Speak on Radio/TV and How to Read Your Books
Sat., Oct. 17
10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
 
Part I – Looking unrehearsed?  Learn how to sound concise and upbeat on radio
and TV by using clear sound bites and short explanations.  Dodge inappropriate
questions and stay on topic. Tips for hosting your own show. Find radio and TV
talk shows. Emmy Award-winning TV host Barry Kibrick will reveal all this, and
more.
 
Part II - Use your words, voice, and imagination to enter the world of the work.
Get out of the way so a poem, song, or story speaks for itself.  Learn how from
poet, author and teacher Deborah Edler Brown.
 
Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland Avenue (at Culver), Culver City. 
Free parking.  10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Cost: members $15, non-members $35. 
Reservations required.  Deadline 4 p.m. Oct. 16.  Call (877) 799-7483, or
e-mail info@...

 
 
Also coming soon the October 26 IWOSC panel on Ghostwriting
 
IWOSC (The Independent Writers of Southern California) presents a panel
discussion:
“Ghostwriters Emerge to Discuss Their Craft”
 
Monday, October 26, 2009
7:30-9 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland (at Culver Boulevard), Culver City
Parking is FREE, enter on Culver
 
Considering ghostwriting? Our October program brings professional “ghosts”
out from the shadows to discuss why they trade visibility as a writer. Tips, and
the pitfalls you’ll want to avoid. How does a writer first collaborate with
the client and then capture their voice? Can your ego handle the discreet role
of the ghostwriter? How a ghost supports a client in the publishing process.
 
COST: $15 for members; $35 for non-members.  Reservations required. Deadline
12:00, Monday 10/26. Call (877) 799-7483, or e-mail info@.... NOTE: If you
reserve and cannot attend, please notify IWOSC at info@....




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The Celebrity Centre International Writers Association Presents

How to Create a Novel or Screenplay that Sells

At the 9th Annual Artists for a Better World Arts Festival
Artistsforabetterworld.org

With Kelly Reno and Eric Sherman

* Lean how to achieve the goals you set for yourself as a writer

* How to turn your ideas into money by writing

* How to create an irresistible pitch for your book or screenplay


* Get the tools on writing that will help you succeed


* How to handle �writers block�


Kelly has been a professional writer for twelve years.  As a successful writer
of fiction and non-fiction, she has had fourteen books published by major
publishing houses including Random House and Berkley. Kelly has also sold two
screenplays. She is a contributing writer to the New York Times Best Seller
Chicken Soup for the Gardener�s Soul.

Eric won the Peabody Award for broadcasting and is an award winning producer and
director.  He is also the author of Directing the Film and Selling Your Film. 
He is a consultant to Universal Studios, Columbia Pictures, Paramount Pictures
and the Mount Company.



Date:    Saturday Nov 7th
Time:    1PM
Cost:    $20
Place:   Celebrity Centre International � Room 101
5930 Franklin Ave., Hollywood, 90028  (323)-960-3100


To confirm, contact Kat Martell: prowritersgroup@...
(818) 220-0898

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IWOSC—THE INDEPENDENT WRITERS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
www.iwosc.org
Helping writers succeed since 1982!
P.O. Box 34279 • Los Angeles, CA 90034     877-79WRITE (799-7483)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
------
 
 
Ghost Stories, Ghostwriters Emerge To Discuss Their Craft
 
 
Monday, October 26, 2009
7:30-9 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Building
4117 Overland  Ave. (at Culver Blvd.), Culver City
Parking is FREE; enter on Culver Blvd.
IWOSC members FREE; $15 for non-members.
Deadline (if space permits) is 12:00 Noon on October 26.
Reserve seats by calling 1-877-79-WRITE (799-7483) or by emailing info@...
Networking to Follow Panel
                         
 
Have you ever considered ghostwriting? For IWOSC’s October program,
professional “ghosts” will come out from the shadows to discuss why they
sometimes trade visibility as a writer for the projects they receive. In
addition, a co-author with a new book will share why she chose that path.
We’ll cover tips as well as a look at the pitfalls you’ll want to avoid. How
does a writer collaborate with the client to gather the best material? How do
you capture their voice? Can your ego handle the discreet role of the
ghostwriter? The panel will also explore how a ghost or collaborator can help
support a client in the publishing process.
 
Free for IWOSC members, $15 for nonmembers
 
Panelists:
 
Michael Levin: A New York Times best-selling author, Michael has written,
co-written or authored more than 80 books. A highly successful ghostwriter of
numerous titles including biography, business, sports and celebrity books.
 
Claudia Suzanne: Author of “This Business of Books” and “Secrets of a
Ghostwriter”; Founder, the Ghostwriter Certification Training program; ghost
of over 100 titles including a New York Times best-selling nonfiction and two
award-winning novels.
 
Idelle Davidson: Co-author of the ground-breaking “Your Brain after Chemo,”
written with UCLA’s Daniel Silverman, MD. Jane Brody, health columnist for the
New York Times, calls it an “excellent new book.”
 
Ellen Violette: Known as the eBook Coach, Ellen will discuss how ghostwriters
could incorporate ebooks as a part of their approach to developing projects for
their clients.
 
Moderator:
 
Robin Quinn: Editor of over 250 books including the award-winning “Soul-Full
Eating”;  ghostwriter of eight titles including a health niche best-seller
and a classic men’s health title.
 
 
 
Cost: Free for IWOSC members; $15 non-members
 
Reservations Required: Deadline (if space permits) is noon, Monday, October 26.
Call (877)799-7483 or e-mail info@.... Note: If you reserve and can not
attend, please notify the IWOSC office at info@....
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that has provided support, tools, and resources to help
self-employed professional writers in Southern California since 1982.
 
#####




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Independent Writers of Southern California
www.IWOSC.org
Monthly Drop-In Satellite meetings Oct.-Dec. 2009
IWOSC's monthly drop-in satellite sessions in Ventura County (Thousand Oaks),
San Fernando Valley (Encino), Pasadena (Altadena), the Westside, and Orange
County are free and open to all writers—both members and non-members. Bring
your writing, ideas, problems, questions, and complaints. Receive support,
laughs, juicy controversy, and plenty of networking.  See www.iwosc.org for
dates and locations.
= Ventura County Satellite—New!
IWOSC's new Ventura County Satellite meets once a month on the 2nd Thursday
morning, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, hosted
by Dawn Wood.  $2 for refreshments.  Reservations required.  Contact Dawn
Wood at aubewood@....
Thursday, November 12                     Thursday, December
10
 
= San Fernando Valley Satellite
The Valley Satellite meets once a month on the 2nd Wednesday morning from 10
a.m.—11:30 a.m. at Barnes & Noble in Encino, offering writers a chance to
participate in a free-flowing exchange of ideas about their work and the writing
business.  Ron Vazzano hosts (ronvazzano@...).
 
            Wednesday, October 14
Wednesday, November 11     Wednesday, December 9
= Westside Satellite
IWOSC's Westside Satellite meets once a month on the 2nd Thursday morning,
10—11:30 a.m., at Dolores Restaurant, hosted by Vickey Kalambakal
(vickey@...).

Thursday, November 12                     Thursday, December
10
= Pasadena/Altadena Satellite
Join writers in the San Gabriel Valley area at The Coffee Gallery in Altadena,
second Friday of the month, 8:30-10 a.m. This is a joint meeting of the IWOSC
Pasadena Satellite and the Alameda Writers Group SIG. Contact Jane Neff Rollins
(JaneNRollins@...). 
 
Friday, October 9
Friday, November 13  Friday, December 11
= Orange County Satellite
The opportunity to meet fellow Orange County writers is brought to you by host
Kurt Bensworth at the Katie Wheeler Library in Tustin, on the third Tuesday,
7:30 p.m. (ksbensworth@...)
Tuesday, October 20
Tuesday, November 17                      Tuesday, December
15

Satellite dates are subject to change. Check updated website (www.IWOSC.org) and
email announcements.
#####
UPCOMING PROGRAMS          September–December 2009
Save the date – reserve now!
 
  
•  Saturday Seminar, October 17, 10:30 a.m.—1 p.m.  HOW TO SPEAK ON RADIO
AND HOW TO READ YOUR BOOKS.  Presenters Barry Kibrick and Deborah Edler Brown
 
• General Meeting/Panel Discussion, Monday, October 26, 7:30 p.m. sharp! 
GHOSTWRITING
 
•  Saturday Seminar, November 21, 10:30 a.m.—1 p.m. WRITER BEWARE!
 
• General Meeting/Panel Discussion, Monday, November 23, 7:30 p.m. sharp! 
EDITING
 
• IWOSC HOLIDAY PARTY   (early December; date and location to be announced)
 
COST: IWOSC’s General Meetings are free to members, $15 to the public.
Saturday Seminars are $15 for members, and $35 for the public.  RESERVATIONS
ARE REQUIRED FOR IWOSC’S PROGRAMS.  Space is limited. For reservations and
information, call 1-877-799-7483, or e-mail info@.... Please call or
e-mail back if you cannot attend.
 
LOCATION: All programs are held at the Veterans Memorial Building, 4117 Overland
Ave. (at Culver; free parking) in Culver City unless otherwise noted. 
#####
 
Missed a recent IWOSC meeting?  Attended but still want more information? 
Tapes are available.  Contact the IWOSC office at info@....
 
=====
 
IWOSC, the Independent Writers of Southern California, is a nonprofit
association that
has provided support, tools, and resources to help self-employed professional
writers
in Southern California since 1982.
 
=====




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