Sunday, February 21, 2010

Writers mix it up, and just like kids we feed them snacks so they'll sit still

The Vancouver Writers’ Mixer was intended as a one time event hosted by Clark College Community Education Teacher, Carolyn J. Rose. She sought to encourage students from her novel writing boot camps to connect with each other and form critique groups. The first mixer was a hit and Rose believed her job was done.

Apparently, she was mistaken.

Badgered by students who couldn’t break the tie to their favorite teacher, she kowtowed to the pressure and planned more gatherings. She recruited Mel Sanders, owner of Cover to Cover Books, who agreed to keep her shop open 5-6:30 PM first Saturdays to support the blatant scheme to encourage local authors.

It should be disclosed that at each event a contingent of ringers fill the seats who merely desire to revere authors for the 30-40 minutes they speak, lob questions at them for 10-15 minutes, stampede to purchase their books, and publicly beg for autographs.

Presenters are expected to play along.

Both Rose and Sanders are task masters who have kept the guest slate booked with well spoken presenters. They are also experienced in the art of delegation and have passed the baton to a committee who seeks to continue the high caliber of education and entertainment the mixers have provided. These rabid volunteers insure events are entertaining, fast paced—beginning with a fantastic and very entertaining emcee—and of course, the event offers snacks.

People in the Pacific Northwest will go anywhere if someone waves a cookie under their nose.

Now, why in the world would I tout such an awesome event on my blog? Why, because I am the emcee of course. Yes, meet The First Carol, alive and in person the first Saturday of every month, at Cover to Cover Books, 1817 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660, except in the summer when it's just too nice to play inside.

And why am 'I' the emcee? Easy, the biggest mouth gets to light the fire and get the event rolling. Uh, that would be me.

The monthly events consistently draw 20-30 locals who desire to improve their craft, gain insight into the publishing industry, and garner tips on securing publishing contracts. The tickets to the event are FREE. You can grab your free ticket here: 
http://vancouverwritersmixer.eventbrite.com/

And if you are published or work in the publishing industry and would like to to volunteer for this speaking gig, you are officially invited to contact the Vancouver Writers Mixer's. Simply, email Will Glessner for more info. Please put 'Writers Mixer' in subject line.

(FULL DISCLOSURE: I'm on the committee, and I have excellent influence, just in case you want to butter me up. I like the cookies that come with chocolate :-)

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2 comments:

Other Lisa said...

well, heck, if I am ever up north on that Saturday, I will certainly drop in!

Carol Doane #pearlofcarol said...

Other Lisa: if you're ever up north you will be our featured speaker. Let's plan it! When is your book launch?

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