Susan spoke about the proper ways to submit your writing, whether it be a manuscript, essay, short story, or a magazine article. It was suprising to hear how many writers just don't do it professionally and totally ignore a publication's requirements. She had us laughing over some of the ridiculous things she's come across as an editor and publisher. One big note: If you're also a scrapbooker...DON'T stamp cutsie things all over your paper! Be professional.
At the end of her session, she had us participate in a poetry writing exercise. I won't go into all of it, but it was fun and there were some wonderful poems written. I tried to get her to accept mine to share with other classes, as an example of either How To Not Write a Poem....or Winner of the Worst Poem Contest. I could see in her eyes, she seriously considered it. Since she didn't, I'll post it at the end. (By the way, I apologize for not having a photo of Susan. I forgot to take pictures during her presentation. The link I provided, though, goes directly to a page all about Susan and contains a great photo.)
Steve writes a column titled, "Pokin Around". How perfect is that? How'd he get so lucky to be born with a name to go with his column?! His are human interest stories. The link I provided above is a good example of what he writes. I was happy to see this article, because just a week ago, I drove past the "tree" in his story, and wondered What the heck? (I am one who thinks it's a great tree.)
Steve was also the journalist who broke the story about Megan Meier, a St. Charles County teenager who committed suicide after being the subject of a cruel hoax on My Space in 2007. Steve brought copies of that edition and talked about his interviews with Megan's grieving parents during that time. His story was like the shot heard 'round the world. Surely no matter where you live, you've heard the extremely sad story.
To Be Continued.................
