OUR NEXT MEETING
Wednesday,
May 23, 2012
7:00 - 8:30 PM

GUEST SPEAKER
P.M.H. ATWATER

P.M.H. Atwater, L.H.D., is one of the original researchers in the field of near-death studies. She began her work in 1978, and to-date has completed ten books on her findings, some which have now been verified in clinical settings. Her book, The Big Book of Near-Death Experiences, was featured in the online version of Newsweek Magazine. Near-death Experiences: The Rest of the Story is Atwater’s most complete and controversial book. She has won many awards, appeared on numerous television shows, and she has made guest appearances around the world, always inviting people to look past appearances for the truth that underlies what we think we know.

Atwater’s presentation topic will be, “The Challenge of Near-Death Research.” In addition to talking about her research, she will touch on the following topics of interest to writers: putting research together in book form; what has been important in dealing with publishing houses; getting endorsements; promoting one’s work; dealing with naysayers and public attacks; and papers; and peer review. 

 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Hello Blue Ridge Writers,

I hope you enjoy the new photo of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I finally grabbed a minute to rummage through my ton of digitized photographs. This photo of the BR was the first one located; it loves its new home.      

May is the time for election of officers. The proposed slate of officers, for the new fiscal year, July 1, 2012 - June 30, 2013, is listed below. Volunteers or nominations recently were solicited by e-mail and by personal contact. There were no volunteers, and nominations suggested did not bear fruit. While we don’t have an individual to fill the treasurer’s position beginning July1st, there is an excellent possibility, an individual who may, upon approval by BRWC members, fill the treasurer’s position starting January 2013. In the interim, other officers will share treasurer’s duties, unless someone wants to volunteer to fill the position on a temporary basis.           

Members will be asked to vote by preference, either electronically or at the May 23^rd monthly meeting. A MailGram ballot will be transmitted shortly to affect the electronic vote; a final vote will take place on May 23^rd.

President – Lauvonda Lynn (Meade) Young
Vice President – Linda Levokove
Secretary - Jean Collier
Treasurer – To be determined

The April 22, 2012, Blue Ridge Writers, “A Way With Words,” Jefferson-Madison Regional Authors’ Series panel was a smashing success! The panelists were perfect. The audience of about15 people, including a good turnout by BRWC members, was engaged throughout, and they asked great questions. Russ Lyttleton (Reference Librarian, Jefferson-Madison--the person who gave us the opportunity to participate in this authors’ series) had everything so well organized from the library’s standpoint there was not a blemish. Thanks to the panelists, and to Russ, for a job done well. There may be another series presented in the fall; if not, we will be asked to participate next year.

I am delighted to tell you that last Sunday Russ Lyttleton mentioned to me the possibility of the BRWC working with Jefferson-Madison Library in creating joint programs that will involve teens. This will be another wonderful opportunity for BRWC members, especially those who have a specific interest in nurturing teen writers. I believe this joint venture will allow us to better meet our Mission Statement, and it will increase the chapter’s visibility. Several BRWC members already have expressed interest in participating.

In addition, I mentioned to Russ the possibility of Jefferson-Madison and the BRWC working together to develop a Festival of the Book program application in 2013, or to develop our own joint program that can be held in conjunction with the Festival. We certainly have the talent and the numbers to make these endeavors successful. We just need to get to work. This joint venture also would increase our chapter’s visibility.

The April 25^th Annual Member Poetry Reading, in Honor of National Poetry Month, prompted many favorable comments from those in attendance. Sixteen were present to hear poets read their own work, and the work of a favorite poet—two non-poets also read the work of a favorite poet. Holley Watts and Randy Salzman recited poems, a rare treat. Thanks to everyone who participated.

Andrew Kaufman donated a copy of his new book, Understanding Tolstoy, to the BRWC. I have the book in my possession if anyone wishes to read it.

No one volunteered to assume the editorship of our newsletter. The newsletter is too vital a means of communication to discontinue, in my opinion, so I’ll remain its editor. I ask you be tolerant of errors and omissions, as we move through the months. I’ll do the best job possible.

                                Have a great month, 
                                        Lynn Young