Thursday, October 30, 2008

JANUARY WRITERS CONFERENCES

January: Glen Eyrie Fiction Writers Conference; Colorado Springs CO
Contact: Craig Dunham
3820 N. 30th
Colorado Springs CO 80904
800-944-4536
www.gleneyriegroup.org
Some editors/agents in attendance
Check Website for dates.

January: Breaking Through Workshop; Canton MI
Contact: Sabrina Adams
PO Box 871006
Canton MI 48187
877-841-3400
www.zoelifepub.com

January 10: National Christian Writers Conference; San Diego CA
Contact: Antonio L. Crawford
PO Box 1458
National City CA 91951-1458
619-791-5810
ncwcsd@yahoo.com
www.nationalchristianwritersconference.com
Jan. 29-Feb. 1: Catholic Writers Retreat; Tucson AZ - 25
Contact: Rev. Thomas Santa, CssR
7101 W. Picture Rocks Rd.
Tucson AZ 85743-9645
866-737-5751
office@desertrenewal.org
www.desertrenewal.org
Offers advanced track.

January 30-31: Act One: Writing for Hollywood Workshop; Colorado Springs CO
Contact: Chris Riley
2690 N Beachwood Dr
Hollywood CA 90068
323-464-0815
fax 323-468-0315
info@actoneprogram.com
www.ActOneprogram.com.
No editors or agents in attendance.

WRITING FOR THE SOUL CONFERENCE

The Christian Writers Guild's WRITING for the SOUL conference at The Broadmoor is the breath of fresh air you've been hoping for. Nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Broadmoor provides the perfect environment for personal development and serious study.

For four days (February 19-22, 2009), you'll be challenged and encouraged through a variety of speakers, continuing classes, elective workshops, and our exclusive "Thick-skinned Manuscript Clinic." In addition, literary agents and publishing representatives will be available for appointments.

Give or ask for the conference as a Christmas gift.

To learn more about our payment plan, call us toll-free at (866) 495-5177 or email at ContactUs@ChristianWritersGuild.com.

Or if you'd prefer, register online at ChristianWritersGuild.com.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

LITERARY MARKET PLACE 2009 AVAILABLE

Literary Market Place 2009 is now available for $309, plus $25 P & H; International Literary Market Place 2009 is $259, plus $21 P & H; and the online version, literarymarketplace.com, is $399/year. Or get all three for $717, plus $46 P & H. Order from: Information Today, 143 Old Marlton Pike, Medford NJ 08055-9912.

NEW CONTACT INFO FOR BOOK PUBLISHERS

Baal Hamon: Ste. T219, 244 Fifth Ave., New York NY 10001; phone +646 213 1019. Page 145.

Evergreen Press: 9350 Dauphin Island Parkway, Theodore AL36582; 251-973-0680; fax 251-973-0682. Page 165.

Frederick Fell: 2131 Hollywood Blvd., Ste. 305, Hollywood FL 33020. Page 168.

Monarch Books: Wilkinson House, Jordan Hill Rd., Oxford 0X2 8DR, England; enquiries@lionhudson.com, or info@lionhudson.com. Page 193.

National Black Theatre: 2031-33 National Black Theatre Way, Fifth Avenue (between 126 & 127th Streets), Harlem NY 10035; nbitca@aol.com, or info@nationalblacktheatre.org. Page 195.

G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers: Drop fax. Website: www.penguingroup.com. Page 205.

Ravenhawk Books: Website & Blog at www.6dofsolutions.com. Page 206.

The Salt Works: 1655 Booth Rd., Roseville CA 95747. Page 209.

Starik Publishing: Blog at www.starikpublishing.com/wordpress. Page 211.

White Stone Books: PO Box 2835, Lakeland FL 33806; toll-free 866-253-8622. Page 220.

Creation House: creationhouse@strang.com; www.creationhouse.com. Page 228.

Essence Publishing: info@essence-publishing.com. Page 230.

IMD Press: 7140 Hooker St., Westminster CO 80030-5459. Page 231.

Selah Publishing: 300 Hickory Rd., Bristol TN 37620-6033. Page 237.

Winer Foundation: PO Box 178, Wynnewood PA 19096-0178. Page 240.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

A FEW NEW MARKETS

Pauline Kids, 50 St. Paul’s Ave., Boston MA 02130; 617-522-8911; fax 617-524-9805;
editorial@paulinemedia.com; www.pauline.org. Christina M. Wegendt FSP, children’s
editor.; Diana Lynch, associate children’s editor; submit to Tiffany Fox, editorial
assistant. Seeks to provide wholesome and entertaining reading that can help children develop strong Christian values. No manuscripts through agents. Royalty 5-12%;advance. Considers simultaneous submissions. Responds in 1-3 mos. Guidelines (also by e-mail/Website); no catalog. Nonfiction & Fiction: Proposal/2 chapters for easy-to-read & middle-grade readers; complete ms for board and picture books; e-query OK. Needs biographies on the lives of Saints. Easy-to-read and middle-reader chapter fiction.

Rejoice!, 600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg MB R3P 0M4, Canada; 204-888-6781; ByronRB@mph.org; www.mpn.net/rejoice. Mennonite. Byron Rempel-Burkholder, ed. Daily devotional magazine grounded in Anabaptist theology. 5% unsolicited freelance; 95% assigned. Pays $100-125 for 7-day assigned meditations, 250-300 words each; on publication for 1st rts. Also accepts testimonies 500-600 words. (8/yr.) Prefers that you send a couple of sample devotions and inquire about assignment procedures; fax/e-query OK. Accepts assigned mss by e-mail (attached). Responds in 4 wks. Seasonal 8 mos. ahead. No simultaneous submissions or reprints. Prefers NRSV. Guidelines by e-mail.

Church Music Quarterly, 19 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EB, United Kingdom; cmq@rscm.com; www.rscm.com. Julian Elloway, editor. Advice and inspiration for church musicians around the world. 5% unsolicited freelance; 95% assigned. Query/clips; phone/fax/e-query OK. Accepts full manuscripts by e-mail. Pays on publication. Articles.

G4T Ink, 419 Mason St., Ste. 108, Vacaville CA 95688; 707-446-4463; phone/fax (707)4463; info@generations4truth.org; www.generations4truth.org. Generations 4 Truth. Jennifer Maul, publications manager/editor. Ministry written for and by girls; also by adults who address teen issues. Quarterly magazine; 40-50 pages; circulation 1,500. Established 2007. 70% unsolicited freelance; 30% assigned. Query/clips; e-query OK. No payment for nonexclusive rights. Not copyrighted. Articles 200-400 words. Responds in 4-6 weeks. Accepts simultaneous submissions & reprints (tell when/where appeared). Accepts e-mail submissions (attached file in word.doc). Uses some sidebars. Prefers NIV. Accepts submissions from teens. Guidelines on Website; copy for 9x12 SAE. (No ads yet). Poetry: Accepts 4-8/yr. Fillers: Accepts cartoons, jokes, prayers, quizzes, short humor, and word puzzles.

Monday, October 27, 2008

ZONDERKIDZ TITLES WIN BOOK AWARDS

Zonderkidz titles win Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards. The judging of the 2008 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards is now complete, and two Zonderkidz titles are winners: Lucy Doesn’t Wear Pink by Nancy Rue is a silver winner in the Pre-Teen category, and Tiny Bear’s Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones is a gold winner in the Religious/Spirituality category. (Children's book writers will want to read these award winning books.)

SMALL PUBLISHER BOOK AWARD NOMINATIONS

Final Call for Christian Small Publisher Book Award Nominations

Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year honors books produced by small publishers each year for outstanding contribution to Christian life. Nominations are accepted in four categories: Fiction, Nonfiction: General, Nonfiction: Biography, and Children’s. Nominations must be received by November 15, 2008.

Books must be published by a small publisher with annual revenues of $350,000 or less. Nominated books must be Christian in nature and intended for the Christian marketplace. All nominated books must be printed in English and for sale in the United States. Any small publisher can nominate titles for the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award.

Christian Small Publishers Association is the sponsor of this new book award. To view the eligibility guidelines and download the nomination form, visit www.christianpublishers.net.

HARRISON HOUSE FILES VOLUNTARY CHAPTER 11

Harrison House Publishers Expects Operations to Continue as Usual

Harrison House Publishers announced today that it has elected to file a voluntary Chapter 11 petition in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma, in order to implement a restructuring and permanently improve its capital structure. A Chapter 11 reorganization provides the company with the opportunity to protect its assets during this time with a structured focus on building for the future. Normal business operations will continue during the reorganization process.

Friday, October 24, 2008

2008 FALL FICTION CONTEST

November 30 is the deadline for the NarrativeMagazine.com 2008 Fall Fiction Contest. Open to all writers. Prizes: 1st $3,000, 2nd $1,500, 3rd $750, and $100 for ten finalists. All entries will be considered for publication. Contest guidelines at www.NarrativeMagazine.com. All entries must be made online.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

"COME TO THE FIRE" CEASING PUBLICATION

According to Aletha Hinthorn, Come to the Fire (formerly called Women Alive! will cease publication as of the November/December issue. Their emphasis now will be on promoting the Come to the Fire conferences. They will keep in touch with their readers/writers by e-mail and with an occasional newsletter.

EDITORS ON THE MOVE

Conciliar Press: Robert Clark, acquisitions editor (robertclark@conciliarmedia.com); Jane G. Meyer, children’s editor. Send hard copy to 3112 Calle Rosales, Santa Barbara CA93105. Page 158.

Celebrate Life: Stephanie Hopping, editor. Page 349.

Eureka Street: submission go to Tim Kroenert; eureka@eurekastreet.com.au. Page 368.

Evangelical Times: Edgar Andrews and Roger Fay, editors (TheEditors@Evangelicaltimes.org). Page 369.

Focus on the Family: Linda Arnold is new editorial assistant. Drop Deb Landers and Michael Ridgeway. Now pays .30-.35/word for articles 375-1,100 words. Page 372.

Indian Life: Jim Uttley is again editor; drop Viola Jones. Page 383.

National Catholic Reporter: Pam Schaeffer, executive editor (pschaeffer@NCRonline.org). Page 395.

Perspectives on Science & Christian Faith: Arie Leegwater, editor; 1726 Knollcrest Cir. S.E., Grand Rapids MI 49546; leeg@calvin.edu. The above address is for the editor; new address for the publication is PO Box 668, Ipswich MA 01938. Page 401.

Relevant and Relevant Online: Corene Israel, print editor; Elizabeth Sloan, online editor. Page 407.

Sports Spectrum: Brett Honeycutt, editor; info@sportsapectrum.com, or editor@sportsspectrum.com. Page 413.

Preschool Playhouse: R. Sailes, Ed.D, Director of Children’s Curriculum (railes@urbanministries.com). Page 434.

Primary Street: R. Sailes, Ed.D, Director of Children’s Curriculum (railes@urbanministries.com). Page 435.

Catholic Telegraph: Tricia Hempel, editor; cteditorial@catholiccincinnati.org. Page 347.

Missiology: J. Nelson Jennings, editor. Page 449.

Barefoot: Stephanie Wilson, editor. Page 454.

Evangelical Baptist: Jennifer Bugg, managing editor; PO Box 457, Guelph ON N1H 6K9, Canada; 519-821-4830, ext. 229; fax 519-821-9829. Page 458.

Connected: Bert Williams, editor; Jenann Elias, assistant editor; editor@ChristianRecord.org. Page 473.

InTeen: Query LaTonya Taylor, editor (ltaylor@urbanministries.com). Page 475.

Young Adult Today: Query LaTonya Taylor, editor (ltaylor@urbanministries.com). Page 479.

Precious Times: Marilyn White, publisher/editor-in-chief; 3857 Birch St., Ste. 215, Newport Beach CA 92660. Page 491.

Monday, October 20, 2008

140+ AUTHORS COMMITTED TO BOOK EXPO 2009

First-Ever Book Fair Anticipates Thousands in Attendance

Phoenix, Arizona—The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) has now confirmed the participation of more than 140 authors for its first-ever Christian Book Expo (CBE), a new consumer-oriented book event slated for Dallas, Texas, during March 2009. Christian Book Expo is a first for ECPA and the first Christian book fair of its type, which will bring together publishers, authors and consumers for a three-day book event. Bestselling authors including Max Lucado, Donald Miller, Philip Yancey, Karen Kingsbury, Lee Strobel, Gary Chapman, Stephen Arterburn, J.I. Packer, Don Piper, Andy Stanley, Mary Manz Simon, Bill Bennett, Henry Blackaby, Ruth Haley Barton, Stormie Omartian, Colleen Coble, Sheila Walsh and Elizabeth George, will be speaking, signing books, conducting workshops and meeting consumers during Christian Book Expo 2009.

Bob Hawkins, President of Harvest House Publishers, believes Christian Book Expo “presents an ideal venue for evangelical book enthusiasts (professional and end users, alike) to connect with one another and a great many authors.” More than twenty Harvest House authors will attend Christian Book Expo.

The inaugural Christian Book Expo will be held in Dallas, Texas, on March 19-22, 2009, at the Dallas Convention Center. ECPA is inviting publishers, ministries, authors and booksellers to exhibit in this open-to-the-public event. Activities at the three-day Expo will include workshops, seminars, mini-events and evening programming—all led by authors—and more than 125 author events are registered to date. Many author groups will be represented at CBE, including Chi Libris, American Christian Fiction Writers, Advance Writers and Speakers Association, the Christian Writers Guild, and scores of self-published authors as well as agents.

“We’re delighted to have passed the milestone of 100 authors committed to attend Christian Book Expo 2009,” states ECPA President Mark Kuyper. “We’re currently at 142 confirmed authors, with at least 30 more authors invited but not yet confirmed. The breadth of genres represented by these authors—from fiction to theology to children’s books and business titles—hints at the variety of experiences book lovers will enjoy at CBE.”

For more information on the 2009 Christian Book Expo, contact Mark Kuyper, 480-966-3998, or visit www.ChristianBookExpo.com. A list of current authors confirmed as of October 17, 2008 is available at www.ecpa.org/pr/pr_authorlist.html.

2009 CBA INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

Plan now to attend CBA Industry Conference .09. CBA Industry Conference .09, Jan. 14, 2009, at the Sheraton Hotel Atlanta, will set the industry’s focus into the future by demonstrating and walking attendees through the latest retail intelligence, consumer data, and digital marketing strategies for cost-saving and growth.

Redesigned for maximum impact and minimum cost, the one-day CBA Industry Conference .09 will introduce the latest data intelligence including the state of retail, National Retail Federation report findings, and broad-scale consumer research. The insight gained at the CBA Industry Conference will be vital to anyone preparing marketing and merchandising strategies for 2009 and seeking to make the greatest impact in their community and on the end consumer.

Other conference highlights will include step-by-step demonstrations on how to use social networking tools to market and expand your presence in this digital age as well as success stories from retailers already utilizing these tools to grow their stores. The one-day schedule will be packed with vital information and step-by-step demonstrations to help you realize maximum impact through your ministry.

For only $35, you’ll receive a full day of content you can’t afford to miss—-and lunch is included. The timing and location of the Industry Conference in Atlanta will allow participants to also take part in the AmericasMart and the CTAI Marketsquare Intl. Registration and housing reservations are available for the Atlanta conference, and information on the Southern California conference will also be available soon. To register for the CBA Industry Conference Atlanta, go to www.cbaonline.org/industryconference or call CBA at (800) 252-1950.

ZONDERVAN DISTRIBUTOR FOR SONY'S DIGITAL BOOK

Zondervan, a world leader in Christian communications, today announced that it will serve as the preferred distributor of the Reader Digital Book by Sony to the CBA market. Zondervan will sell both individual Reader Digital Books to retailers and will also offer special pricing of Zondervan content for the Reader. A select number of digital titles will be available with more being introduced in the months ahead. An interactive point-of-purchase demonstration fixture for the Sony Reader is also available for CBA stores through Zondervan.

Friday, October 17, 2008

GOLLEHON BOOKS SEEKS WRITERS

Gollehon Books is starting a new imprint for Christian/inspirational books and is currently very open to review manuscripts. They are looking for either inspirational or scholarly books, but probably not fiction. Above all, they would like to see an element of controversy in the manuscript--in hopes that would give them a leg up with publicity.

Publisher, John Gollehon (john@gollehonbooks.com), is looking for both agented and nonagented books. He wants to see only a proposal, a sample page or two, along with the author's bio listing all credentials. If interested, they will request to see the full manuscript.

Their plan is to produce both trade paperbacks and hardcover books--and they work fast. You need to know that up to this point this publisher has produced gaming books, but from now on will be concentrating on inspirational titles, and possibly will move into the areas of sports or gardening.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

ONLINE CHAT WITH THE SHACK AUTHOR

Abunga.com, the family- friendly bookstore, is hosting a free online chat with William Paul Young, author of the No. 1 New York Times best-selling book, "The Shack," on Oct. 22 as a part of the weekly "Authors at Abunga" chat series.

"This novel has created a big buzz among readers," said Abunga.com Chairman Lee Martin. "Our online chat will give people the chance to ask their questions directly to Mr. Young and learn his thoughts and inspiration behind the story."

Young, a Canadian-born son of missionaries, wrote the novel as a personal story for his six children, and never intended it to be for public consumption. Since its debut on the market, "The Shack" has sky-rocketed to success, landing in the No. 1 spot on several trade paperback fiction best-seller lists.

The fictional redemptive story revolves around Mackenzie Allen Phillips, whose daughter is tragically abducted during a family vacation. Shortly after, evidence of her murder is found in an abandoned shack.

Four years later Phillips receives a note, supposedly from "God," inviting him back to the shack. Accepting the offer, even against his better judgment, Phillips experiences an unexpected encounter that will forever change his life. For more information, visit http://Abunga.com/FeaturedAuthorYoung.

The Abunga.com online chat will take place from 2- 3 p.m. EDT on Oct. 22 at http://Abunga.com/AuthorsAtAbunga. Questions are currently being accepted at the "Authors at Abunga" Web page and will also be taken during the chat. An archive of the chat will be available at Abunga.com on the following day for those unable to attend.

"Many people may not have the opportunity to attend an event with Mr. Young and hear him speak about his book," Martin said. "But the Abunga.com online chat format allows anyone with Internet access the opportunity to join in, and we hope people will take advantage of this."

Abunga.com is an online bookstore founded to provide families a protected shopping environment. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., Abunga.com offers safety with more than 2 million family-friendly titles; savings through distributor-direct prices; and support to nonprofit organizations by donating 5 percent of each transaction to a customer- selected charity. For more information, visit www.Abunga.com.

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA

Gift and Give During this Economically Difficult Christmas Season--Abunga.com Offers Clearance-Priced Books, Gives Portion of Sales to User-Selected Nonprofits

Abunga.com, a family-friendly online bookstore, provides a hassle-free way for consumers to do their Christmas shopping and continue charitable giving during this difficult economic time.

There are more than 2 million, gift-worthy Christian and family-friendly books available at Abunga.com, many of which are offered at a price of under $5. In addition, the bookstore gives 5 percent of all net purchases to a nonprofit organization of the consumer's choice through the Favored Abunga Nonprofit (FAN) program. Currently, Abunga.com has more than 8,000 different FANs to choose from including Christian schools, churches, national ministries and humanitarian organizations such as Compassion International, Focus on the Family, Make- A-Wish Foundation of America and the American Red Cross.

"Abunga.com recognizes that our country is in the midst of an economic flux, and as a result, people are cutting back and looking for ways to save," said Lee Martin, chairman of Abunga.com. "Still, because of the economy, the amount of people in need is on the rise, so Abunga.com wants to not only give consumers a great deal but also help them continue in their charitable giving through their everyday book purchases."

The Web-based bookstore is continually expanding its FAN list by allowing consumers to nominate their favorite nonprofits by filling out a simple online form. Abunga.com reviews all submissions to ensure each organization upholds the ethical, moral and spiritual principles that coincide with Abunga.com's positive mission of family- friendliness.

For consumers looking for a deal, Abunga.com offers both a "clearance" section and "books under $5" page. In addition, parents can find top children's books and gift ideas at the children's corner at http://Abunga.com/childrenscorner.

"Abunga.com sells both family- friendly and budget-friendly books," Martin said. "In addition, with the help of the FAN program, we are able to put a spotlight on outstanding nonprofit organizations."

Abunga.com is an online bookstore founded to provide families a protected shopping environment. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., Abunga.com offers safety with more than 2 million family-friendly titles; savings through distributor-direct prices; and support to nonprofit organizations by donating 5 percent of each net purchase to a customer-selected charity. For more information, visit www.Abunga.com.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

TODAY'S CHRISTIAN CHANGES OWNERSHIP

Christianity Today International is pleased to announce the acquisition of Today's Christian magazine by Significant Living. The last issue of Today's Christian will be the November/December 2008 issue; it will then become Significant Living's Today's Christian. The new publication will launch in January 2009, featuring a new, larger full-size magazine format, beautiful layouts and photography, informational articles and inspiring stories of faith.

Significant Living's Today 's Christian, a faith-based magazine focused on those in midlife and beyond, will feature Christian celebrities, sports figures, well-known public personalities and those prominent in Christian ministries. In addition the new magazine will feature "everyday heroes"--outstanding examples of ordinary people living significant, extraordinary lives. "We believe our readers will be delighted with our magazine, the premier publication of its kind," says Jerry Rose, President of Significant Living (www.SL50.org) and Total Living International.

The Today's Christian website, www.todays-christian.com, and its e-newsletter, will continue as part of ChristianityToday.com.

"We are pleased that the ministry of Today's Christian magazine will continue and expand under the leadership of Significant Living," says Terumi Echols, Vice President of Christianity Today International. Christianity Today International is a 501 (c)3 not-for-profit communications ministry whose mission is to create Christian content that changes the people who change the world. CTI serves the global church with 11 magazines, more than 40 e- newsletters, and www.ChristianityToday.com, which together reach nearly 4 million people each month.

Monday, October 13, 2008

NEW PUBLISHER AT CHRISTIAN RETAILING

Dave Condiff has been promoted to publisher of Christian Retailing magazine. Condiff, advertising director for CR since 2002, and owner of Praise Unlimited in Minneapolis from 1985-1999, was instrumental in launching the magazine’s The Church Bookstore and Inspirational Gift Trends supplements. He also oversaw the 2005 founding of The Gathering of Church Bookstores and The Gathering 2009.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

CHRISTIAN BOOKS AVAILABLE ON KINDLE

Seen in the Dallas Examiner's Christian Literature
Examiner column by Hollee J. Chadwick:

Amazon.com Inc. announced in July that 11 Christian publishers will
make a majority of their catalogs of books available for use on the
Kindle
,
Amazon's e-reader . Book
Business Magazine reported in their
July 25, 2008 issue that Augsburg Fortress, Crossway Books & Bibles,
David C. Cook, Gospel Light, Group Publishing, NavPress, Strang
Communications, Thomas Nelson, Tyndale House Publishers, Wm. B.
Eerdmans Publishing Co. and Zondervan have committed to making many
of their titles available to Kindle users by the end of the year.

"Of the 135,000 books available on Amazon.com as a physical book and
on the Kindle, Kindle books already account for over 12 percent of
units sold," says Ian Freed, vice president of Amazon Kindle. "We're
pleased that so many publishers are seeing this success with their
Kindle titles, and that more publishers like the Christian book
publishers are getting on board."

CONNECTING WITH OTHER WRITERS

WritersMarket.com has launched a community area for its subscribers. Now, in addition to its database of more than 6,000 publishing opportunities, WritersMarket.com allows its subscribers to connect and network with each other.

Some of the things you'll be able to do include joining (or creating) groups centered around your writing interests, the ability to blog, the ability to request friends and send them messages, and so much more. Check out the community by clicking here.

And since this is an enhancement to the site, there are no extra fees. You can take full advantage of the community site and all of the listings at the normal WritersMarket.com subscription price. For a Free 30 day trial visit www.WritersMarket.com.

Friday, October 10, 2008

BIRTHDAY MESSAGES TO BILLY GRAHAM

Send a birthday message to Billy Graham. Franklin Graham recently sent an open letter to brothers and sisters to send a birthday greeting to his father, Billy Graham:

“My father will turn 90 on November 7, and he’s been looking forward to reaching this milestone. There is something special we want to give him for his birthday, and I'm writing to ask for your help.
We are inviting friends like you to send a birthday greeting or a personal message about how God may have used Billy Graham to influence your life and work.

“We’ve set up a special Web site, www.billygraham90.com, where you can submit a birthday message or personal story for my father. We’re looking for testimonies from people around the world of how they came to know Jesus Christ through my father’s ministry. We’ll assemble these messages and present them all to him as a birthday gift. I know he will be encouraged to see what God has done.
Would you consider joining us in this celebration? First, please send your own personal greeting by November 1. We will be honored to include it in the birthday presentation to my father.

“Second, you reach a large audience, and I’d welcome your assistance in spreading the word. Our special site, www.billygraham90.com, also has downloadable resources for you to share with others, including a bulletin insert, a PowerPoint slide, banner ads, and videos.

“I believe this celebration will bring praise to the Lord for all He has done. To God alone be the glory!

“Thank you for helping encourage my father on this special day. May God richly bless you.”

THE WRITING SPA/MARY DEMUTH

The Writing Spa (http://www.thewritingspa.com)
Pioneered by author Mary E. DeMuth

Author and writing mentor Mary DeMuth has walked the road to publication. An accomplished nonfiction freelancer and novelist, Mary understands the twists and turns of the publishing industry. She’s passionate about the writing craft, savvy about marketing, and thrilled to help writers get to the next step in their writing journeys. If you’re looking for that next boost in your writing career; if you’re stuck in a rut and can’t seem to go forward, register now for a trip to The Writing Spa. There are four products available: nonfiction mentoring, fiction mentoring, substantive fiction mentoring and tailored mentoring. Learn more here: http://www.thewritingspa.com/packages.html

About Mary:

Mary has been writing feverishly ever since her second grade teacher dared to say she had talent. She’s been published since the turn of the century, her first book releasing in 2005. Books include Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God, Building the Christian Family You Never Had, Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture, Watching the Tree Limbs, Wishing on Dandelions, and coming soon: Daisy Chain.
What qualifies her to be a book mentor?

* She owns The Writers View and The Writers View 2, a 1400+ online professional writing community.
* She co-leads the Rockwall Christian Writer’s Group.
* She’s been a teacher at several national writing conferences, including Mount Hermon and ACFW.
* She’s published in Writer’s Digest and The Writer.
* She facilitates Wannabepublished, a well trafficked blog about the publishing journey. And she’s just plain passionate about helping writers succeed.

Endorsements:

Mary DeMuth's expertise in editing, her mastery when it comes to writing book proposals, her deep integrity, and her knowledge of the industry make her my number one choice when referring would-be writers for coaching. She has a passion for helping other writers succeed. Sandra Glahn, author, editor, teacher of graduate-level writing students in Dallas Seminary's media arts program

Mary’s extensive knowledge of the publishing industry continually impresses me, and her delight in helping writers succeed is evident in everything she does. I would recommend her to anyone who wants a knowledgeable and inspiring partner on his or her journey to publication. Rachelle Gardner, Agent, Wordserve literary

Mary's singular integrity and sincere passion for developing the whole author has made her an infusion of excellence in our blossoming industry. Mick Silva, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group


Mary is a consummate professional and well equipped to help other writers with both the creative and business side of writing. Her discipline, integrity, and sense of humor make her a pleasure to work with! Terry Glaspey, Senior Editor, Harvest House Publishers

CAN OPENS DOORS TO NEW MEMBERS

The Christian Authors Network is an organization of writers who work
together to spread the word about our Christian books to book lovers
everywhere. They pool their knowledge and resources in a variety of promotion
avenues -- sharing experiences and advice about book marketing, featuring
member new releases in our monthly eNewsletter and online book club You've
Got Books!, multi-author regional events, listings and links on our website,
and more.

For logistical reasons, CAN opens the doors to new members only once per
year. Membership applications are being accepted until October 15. If you've
published or contracted at least two books with a traditional CBA
royalty-paying publisher and are interested in learning more about CAN, we
invite you to visit the "For Writers" page on our website at
www.christianauthorsnetwork.com .

N0-FEE SHORT STORY CONTEST

Oceanview Publishing is sponsoring a no-fee short story contest with a
grand prize of $250 cash and $150 worth of Oceanview's books. Two
finalists in addition will receive $100 cash and $150 in Oceanview books.

Entry deadline: November 17, 2008; winner posted January 1, 2009

See website for full details: http://www.oceanviewpub.com/Contest.htm

FREE CHRISTIAN ARTICLE DIRECTORY

'Sink Your Roots' Launches Free Christian Article Directory

Sink Your Roots, a new Christian website offering challenging Bible studies for serious Christian growth, announced today the official launch of its free Christian article directory.

Visitors have free access to articles on a variety of topics including Christian education, Christian growth, prayer, and Bible study. All articles in Sink Your Roots' Christian article directory are available for free reprint to Christian ezines, Christian blogs, and other Christian websites.

"New articles on an expanding range of topics will be added regularly," said Paula Marolewski, founder of Sink Your Roots and author of the articles, Bible studies and Christian fiction available on the website. "All the articles on the site are designed to give practical, relevant information for Christian life and living. This Christian article directory is an important part of our mission to provide an online resource for Christians who are committed to deepening their faith and making a difference in their world."

In addition to the Christian article directory, Sink Your Roots features downloadable Bible studies, free Bible study lessons, and Christian fiction and literature, all written exclusively for visitors to Sink Your Roots. Topics range from "Good vs. Evil" to "Debunking Myths about God's Will". All lessons, studies and fiction on the website are available for immediate download. To learn more, visit www.sinkyourroots.com or contact them via email at info@sinkyourroots.com.

About Sink Your Roots
Sink Your Roots is a unique website offering exclusive, downloadable Bible studies, lessons, fiction and articles for serious Christian growth. The mission of Sink Your Roots is summed up in 2 Peter 3:18: to help others "grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ." It is because we desire to see others grow in their relationship with the Lord that we offer you the Christian Bible studies and free Bible study lessons available on Sink Your Roots.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

NEW GUIDELINES/CHURCHMOUSE PUBLICATIONS

Churchmouse Publications, LLC
A web-based publishing syndicate serving the Christian community

PO Box 9
Hudson, NH 03051
Email: submissions@churchmousepublications.com.
www.churchmousepublications.com

Churchmouse Publications, LLC is providing an exciting opportunity for new and established Christian artists, authors, cartoonists, creators and photographers. Since we are a new web-based publishing syndicate in a very competitive field, we need to stock our shelves— with excellence. We’re looking for well thought out and well written features.

To get a copy of the Churchmouse Publications most recently (9/18/08) updated Submissions Guidelines, please feel email submissions@churchmousepublications.com. Please read them carefully.

Please note that Churchmouse prefers to receive queries in the body of your email and submissions as a Microsoft Word doc attached to your email. No phone calls please.

Among other topics, we are currently seeking informational features on the following:

 Alcohol and drug recovery
 Abuse Counseling
 Career counseling
 Diet and exercise programs
 Family and marriage counseling
 Financial planning
 Food banks
 Homeless shelters
 Homes for people in transition
 Info on humanitarian charities
 Parenting classes
 Pregnancy counseling
 Prison Ministry Material
 Sexual Abuse Counseling

PICKAFIG.COM FOR CATHOLICS & PRO-LIFERS

Finding Good Fruit on the Internet: PickAFig.com Offers Social Bookmarking for Catholics, Pro-Lifers

Christian Newswire/ -- The internet can be a wilderness, with thousands of articles written daily. Social bookmarking sites have arisen to help Internet users, but the popular ones, such as Digg, leave faith- based sites and postings out in the cold - or worse, the subject of ridicule.

PickAFig.com is a new site that offers a similar function, but with a focus on Catholic, Pro-Life, and Christian sites, news and resources. Users can submit links to news articles, blog postings, and websites, and vote on stories that others have submitted. The most popular and useful stories can then be easily recognized. Webmasters and bloggers can add small voting buttons that show a particular page's popularity on PickAFig.com, and allow their readers to easily vote or submit their content to the new faith-base social bookmarking site.

Writers, journalists, and bloggers can use PickAFig.com to see what Catholics are interested in and reading about on the Internet, and find topics to research further in their own publications and websites.

"The name PickAFig.com comes from several Scripture references regarding good and bad fruit," said Paul Nowak, president of R.A.G.E. Media who created the site. "In a sense, PickAFig.com users are sorting the good fruit from the bad fruit in the wilderness of the Internet, and sharing it with one another."

PickAFig.com launched in late July 2008, and in the past 2 months has maintained approximately 1,000 unique visitors a month, as well as support from Catholic bloggers and websites including the Curt Jester, American Papist, and BettNet. Catholic Exchange, one of the top 3 Catholic websites worldwide as ranked by Alexa.com, recently added PickAFig.com voting buttons on their articles.

While PickAFig.com's focus is on topics of interest to Catholics, there are categories for pro-life an general Christian topics. In fact, many of the articles posted on PickAFig.com to date are specifically pro-life content from sources such as LifeNews.com.

Friday, October 3, 2008

101 BEST WEBSITES FOR WRITERS

Writers Digest is taking nominations for their 2008 list of 101 Best
Websites for Writers. If you find my Website helpful, I'd appreciate it if you could put in a good word for it as one of the 101 best websites for writers.
Send your nomination to writersdig@fwpubs.com with "101 Websites" as
the subject. In the body of the email include the name "Christian Writers' Marketplace" and a link to the Website: www.stuartmarket.com. You could also nominate this blog.