Lit & Art Event

WRITEFUL PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, Public Relations Director

DATE: Wednesday, April 09, 2008

EMAIL: edgewriter@gmail.com

Lit and Art in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Tax season may be upon us, but April does not have to be the cruelest month.

On Sunday, April 20 at 2 p.m., the Watermark Gallery in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor will continue its popular Lit and Art series. Eight local authors will present their fiction and poetry. An original collection of art by local artist Manzar will be on display.

Returning writers include Caryn Coyle, Lauren Beth Eisenberg, Eric D. Goodman, Nitin Jagdish, Eric Kestler, Cliff Lynn, and Deanna Nikaido. Making her Lit and Art debut will be Nancy O. Greene.

A collection of surreal artwork by Manzar will be on display.

Started in October 2007, the Lit and Art series provides a unique opportunity to sample a variety of artistic sensibilities. Like previous events in this series, it is free and open to the public. Complimentary wine and refreshments will be served.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center, Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

Learn more about the Watermark at their online gallery.

www.manzar.net

Learn more about the “Lit and Art” reading event at Writeful.

www.Writeful.blogspot.com

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The CityLit Project’s Fifth Annual Celebration of Literature

WRITEFUL PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, MWA Public Relations Director

DATE: April 7, 2007

EMAIL: edgewriter@gmail.com

The CityLit Project’s Fifth Annual Celebration of Literature

Poet Afaa Michael Weaver joins authors Lippman, Fesperman, Suri, Carson, and others at the CityLit Festival V.

The fifth edition of the festival takes place on Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Free Library. The event is free and open to the public.

Weaver wrote and published poetry while working factory jobs at Procter & Gamble and Bethlehem Steel. He founded 7th Son Press and published the journal “Blind Alleys,” which featured Andrei Codrescu, Frank Marshall Davis, and Lucille Clifton among others. As a freelancer, he has written for the Baltimore Sun, the Boston Globe, the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Chicago Tribune, and the Baltimore Afro-American. He began his teaching career as an adjunct in 1987, teaching at New York University, the City University of New York, Seton Hall Law School, and Essex County College. In 1990, he began at Rutgers Camden and received tenure with distinction there as an early candidate. In 1998, Weaver joined the English Department at Simmons College, where he founded the Zora Neale Hurston Literary Center.

Deputy Mayor Salima Siler Marriott, Pratt Library Executive Director Dr. Carla Hayden, and CityLit Project Executive Director Gregg Wilhelm join the poet at 10:30 to declare April 19 “Afaa Michael Weaver Day.” Weaver reads from The Plum Flower Dance at 2:00.

The Maryland Writers’ Association will be present all day at the Festival—find out more about the MWA and learn how you can become a part of the organization by stopping by the booth.

Meanwhile, three of Baltimore’s most prominent literati share their brand new books at 1:00 in Pratt Library’s Wheeler Auditorium. Tom Hall, Culture Editor for WYPR’s “Maryland Morning,” talks with Dan Fesperman, The Amateur Spy; Laura Lippman, Another Thing to Fall; and Manil Suri, The Age of Shiva.

Dr. Ben Carson, world-renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, shares his insight and advice from Take the Risk: Learning to Identify, Choose, and Live with Acceptable Risk. Dr. Carson presents at 3:00. The Maryland Humanities Council’s Maryland Center for the Book honors its “Letters About Literature” contest winners from around the state at 11:00 with special guest children’s chapter book author Margaret Meacham. S. James Guitard and Victoria Christopher Murray read from and discuss their latest novels, and sports writer John Eisenberg revisits the Barbaro story in his new book. Michael Olesker, Tonight at Six; Diane Scharper, Reading Lips; and contributors to Freshly Squeezed, a new anthology based on writing from the popular “Write Here, Write Now” workshops, all present special pre-publication previews of their new books. Featured authors reading their work from the anthology include Rick Connor, Fernando Quijano III, Nicole Walton, Tamara Keurejian, Barbara Friedland, Holly Myers, Mare Cromwell, Eric D. Goodman, Nancy O. Greene, and Leo Horrigan. For families, Caldecott Honoree and New York Times bestselling children’s book author Carole Boston Weatherford shares her latest book, Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins.

Poetry is never in short supply at CityLit Festival. Reggie Harris returns to host “Poetry by Place,” a spoken word tour de force featuring poets who appear at various venues around Baltimore. Poets Ink is back again conducting a workshop and reading.

Attendees are also encouraged to browse and buy at the Literary Marketplace, featuring more than fifty authors, editors, literary journals, presses and organizations.

CityLit Festival is made possible with the support of the Maryland State Arts Council and the Baltimore Office of Promotion and The Arts.

Programs take place throughout the library. A complete schedule of times and locations is available at CityLit’s website below.

www.CityLitProject.org

Learn more about this and other literary news and events at

www.Writeful.blogspot.com

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Maryland Writers’ Association Press Release

MARYLAND WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, MWA Public Relations Director

DATE: January 28, 2008

EMAIL: edgewriter@gmail.com

BEST WAY TO KEEP YOUR LITERARY RESOLUTIONS

Each year, countless writers make resolutions about their writing goals. This is the year you’ll publish that short story, write that novel, or at least put pen in hand and write a few pages each day.

And in May, where will you be? Here’s a great way to keep your writerly resolutions in check.

Register yourself now to attend the 20th annual Maryland Writers Association on Saturday, May 3, 2008 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Maritime Institute in Linthicum.

Keynote speaker Thomas F. Monteleone is but one of many professional, successful writers planning to spend the day helping you reach your own writing goals.

Join local experts and established writers at the 20th annual Maryland Writers’ Association’s conference. You’ll have the opportunity to hone your craft in sessions led by established authors, instructors, and experts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s plenty for you at the conference. Come explore the many worlds of writing.

To register, or for more information, visit the conference website.

http://www.marylandwriters.org/conferences.html

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Maryland Writers’ Association, Baltimore Chapter – January 28, 2008 Meeting

Please find below a press release about an event taking place in Baltimore on Monday the 28th. Feel free to contact me for more details.

Best regards,

-Eric D. Goodman –
www.Writeful.blogspot.com

MARYLAND WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, MWA Public Relations Director

DATE: January 11, 2007

EMAIL: edgewriter@gmail.com

Your Chance to Steer Baltimore Writers

The year’s first monthly meeting of the Maryland Writers’ Association’s Baltimore Chapter is your chance to join in the discussion of what the organization will do in 2008. The event takes place at Ukazoo Books in on Monday, January 28 from 7-9 pm and is free and open to the public.

We’re not having a guest speaker this time — instead, we’re inaugurating what may become an annual tradition, a roundtable member discussion to map out where we’d like the organization to go in the coming year. Topics up for discussion will include meeting dates, venues, topics, guest speakers, activities, the financing of signs for the organization, and more. We will also discuss ways in which to reach out to other writers in the community, how to get more involved with the community and other organizations, and what sorts of activities the MWAB should initiate or participate in during the coming years.

If you are a writer in Baltimore or the surrounding area, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to make your voice heard.

Ukazoo Books
730 Dulaney Valley Rd.
Towson, MD 21204
www.ukazoobooks.com

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Gluckman Brings Espionage and Conspiracy to Baltimore – Press Release

MARYLAND WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, MWA Public Relations Director

EMAIL: edgewriter@gmail.com

Gluckman Brings Espionage and Conspiracy to Baltimore Writers

At the November meeting of the Maryland Writers’ Association Baltimore Chapter, author Geoffrey M. Gluckman brings espionage and conspiracy to Baltimore as he talks about how to use research to add authenticity to fiction, including where to find resources and how to cultivate them. The name of his presentation is Authenticity: Facts in Fiction.

Gluckman is the author of the spy thriller Deadly Exchange, an exciting novel of espionage and conspiracy. To write the thriller, he drew on his experience as a federal agent and recruitment by the CIA, as well as his experience as an exercise physiologist and international lecturer.

*The event takes place in the Barnes and Noble at the Inner Harbor. November 26, 2007 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

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The Fall Issue of JMWW Features Eric D. Goodman

I received this notice and would like to pass it on. Make sure to take a look at Eric’s work on his blog, Writeful, and in publications like The Baltimore Review.

Baltimore author Eric D. Goodman is published in the Fall issue of JMWW.

JMWW is a popular online literary journal based in Baltimore that publishes “the best fiction, poetry, essays, and art on the web. Or at least a close approximation.”

Jen Michalski, the editor, recently announced the new issue: “The Fall 07 issue of JMWW is now floating in space — featuring artists Elizabeth Crisman and Peter Schwartz; Eric D. Goodman’s five favorite Johns; and new expanded fiction, flash, essays, poetry, and book reviews! We are seriously rich with pleasure this issue, so sit back and have a cuppa.”

Each issue of JMWW begins with a note from the editor, then a “High Five.” In the current issue, Eric writes about his “five favorite Johns” of writing.

“We’re definitely excited that Baltimore writer Eric D. Goodman meditates on his five favorite Johns in this issue’s High Five,” Jen wrote in her editor’s note.

Enjoy the fall 2007 issue of JMWW now!

http://jmww.150m.com/

Learn more at Eric’s lit blog, www.Writeful.blogspot.com

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Thomas F. Monteleone Keynote Speaker at the Maryland Writers’ Association 20th Anniversary Conference – Press Release

Looks like another great author is lined up for the MWA 20th Anniversary Conference!

MARYLAND WRITERS’ ASSOCIATION PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Eric D. Goodman, MWA Public Relations Director

DATE: November 2, 2007

EMAIL: edgewriter @ gmail.com

MONTELEONE KEYNOTES MARYLAND WRITERS’ CONFERENCE

Maryland author Thomas F. Monteleone is confirmed as the keynote speaker for the Maryland Writers’ Association 20th Anniversary Conference.

The Conference, which draws writers from across the state of Maryland and beyond, takes place on Saturday, May 3, 2008 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Maritime Institute of Technology conference center. The address is 692 Maritime Boulevard, Linthicum Heights, MD 21090.

Thomas F. Monteleone has been a professional writer since 1972, and is four-time winner of the Bram Stoker Award. He has published more than 100 short stories in numerous magazines and anthologies. His stories have been nominated for many awards, and have appeared in a number of best-of-the-year compilations.

He has written thirty-six books, including The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Writing a Novel.

Monteleone is one of many successful authors presenting an array of literary topics at the day-long conference.

Join local experts and established writers for an opportunity to hone your craft in sessions led by established authors, instructors, and experts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s plenty for you at the conference. Come explore the many worlds of writing.

Register now to take advantage of our EARLY BIRD SPECIAL — now through December 31!

To register, or for more information, visit the conference website.

http://www.marylandwriters.org/conferences.html

Note to Editors: Thomas F. Monteleone is available for interview. If you would like to write a story about the conference and set up an interview with Mr. Monteleone, please contact the Conference Coordinator, Denise Camacho, at dbcamacho@hotmail.com.

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Oct 27, 2007 – CityLit Project B&N Bookfair Fundraiser

Are you going to be in the Barnes&Noble at the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, MD tomorrow? Why not give to a good cause while you’re at it. When you make your purchases, present a special voucher and a portion will go to The CityLit Project, a non-profit organization that helps to expand the culture of literature in Maryland.

To find out more information, visit the website at http://www.citylitproject.org/?q=node/190. And to get the voucher, send and e-mail to INFO@CITYLITPROJECT.ORG.

Nancy O. Greene
http://www.portraits.bravehost.com

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CELEBRATE 800 YEARS OF RUMI – Press Release

Passing along this press release for what is sure to be an excellent event!

Celebrate 800 years of Persian poet, teacher, and philosopher Rumi at “A Rumi-esque Reading.”

The event takes place at the Watermark Gallery in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor on Sunday, October 21 at 2 p.m. and includes readings of Rumi’s work as well as Rumi-inspired fiction, poetry, artwork, and music. Wine and refreshments will be served.

The Maryland Writers Association (MWA) will be well represented at the event; all three fiction-readers and one of the two poetry-readers are members of the MWA.

Hightlights of “A Rumi-esque Reading” include readings of Rumi’s work as well as Rumi-inspired work from poets Deanna Nikaido and Cliff Lynn.

Three local fiction writers will share their work.

Caryn Coyle will read her story, “She Walks in Beauty,” about a Native American ancestor guiding a twentieth century woman on a spiritual journey

Nitin Jagdish will read “Lines: A Portrait Contemplates Its Audience” and “Fragments from a Backyard Melodrama.”

Eric D. Goodman will read excerpts from Womb, a novel written from the point of view of an unborn child.

“Diverse Expressions,” a collection of surreal artwork by Manza Rassouli-Taylorr, will be on display.

Eastern, Rumi-inspired music will be performed to enhance the mood.

During the intermission as well as after the readings, members will have the opportunity to mingle with the authors, artists, and each other to talk about Rumi’s work and how his spirit lives on in the works of new artists today.

The Watermark Gallery is located in the Bank of America Center Skywalk Level, right across from the Inner Harbor, at 100 S. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The phone number is (410) 547-0452.

Learn more about the Watermark at their online gallery.

http://www.manzar.net/

Learn more about “A Rumi-esque Reading” at Writeful.

www.Writeful.blogspot.com

Brush up on your Rumi here.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalal_ad-Din_Muhammad_Rumi

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Time well spent – The Baltimore Book Festival, 2007

On September 30th, 2007, I woke up from a very relaxing sleep to realize that I was late for the start of the last day of this year’s BBF. I had planned to make an early start of things in order to enjoy the readings of some of my friends and colleagues.

So I quickly got myself together and headed down to the festival. Fortunately, I was in time to hear most of the readings of Works in Progress, sponsored by Gregg Wilhelm’s CityLit Project and moderated by Paul Lagasse, MWAB’s President. Unfortunately, I missed the first reading by Edith Goldman of her work “Pan-delerium,” though I’m sure it was excellent.

Michael M. Hughes, a local horror writer, read an entertaining and funny piece called “Lunch Meeting.” Barabara Friedland read an excerpt from her upcoming novel A Member of the Force, based on the true story of a local murder case. Having heard and read earlier excerpts from the novel, it was wonderful to see that it is coming along so well. I think it could possibly become a Baltimore staple, one of those novels that people mention when they talk about Baltimore’s literary scene. Jen Michalsk’s reading of “The Movie Version of My Life,” from her short story collection Close Encounters, was another interesting read. It was, if memory serves correctly, my first introduction to her work.

Mathew Lee Gill’s novel excerpt “Broken Charm” was a telling piece about a shady characters. Lalita Noronha also read an excerpt from her novel in progress. Afterwards, I purchased a copy of her short story collection Where Monsoons Cry. The last time I heard her read at one of the MWA meetings, her writing stuck in my mind and I knew before she finished that I would be purchasing a copy. Lauren Eisenberg Davis read a selection from her memoir-in-progress. Eric D. Goodman read “The Silences” from Tracks, his novel of interconnected stories. It’s always good to hear Eric read; in fact, a few months ago he read “A Good Beer Needs a Good Stein,” one of my favorite pieces from the novel, on NPR. It’s an excellent example of how authors should read their work, and a first-person version of the story is available at To Be Read Aloud.

Last, but not least, Ian Hochberg read several of his poems. I was reminded of the beat poets, he just had an energy about him that was so fun to watch and his pieces were engaging.

I enjoyed the readings so much (despite having to take a seat outside of the tent because of my late arrival, and therefore baking in the hot, hot, too hot sun), and afterwards I chatted briefly with some of the other writers before heading off to find some food. Even though hadn’t had breakfast, I ended up waiting several hours to buy something to eat–a soda sustained me while I walked around and decided on what books to devour.

Last year I didn’t have much time to purchase. This year was different. Thanks to huge discounts, I walked away with two bags full of books, magazines, and miscellaneous items.

Raw Dog Screaming Press (publisher of the wonderful book Vacation by Jeremy C. Shipp) was on hand, and we talked and I browsed and on my second time around—after deciding on what I would and wouldn’t purchase—I bought The Bizarro Starter Kit: An Introduction to the Bizarro Genre. It turned out that one of the men I chatted with, John Edward Lawson, was also featured in the collection and he signed it for me.

I also purchased several copies of the literary journal Mosaic. It was a surprise to find out that such a professional publication was no longer stocked in bookstores. The publisher and I talked a bit about their attempts to get it back into stores now that the magazine is non-profit. I personally prefer to buy literary magazines from the stores, whether a big chain like B&N or a local independent, simply because of problems with receiving subscriptions in the past, but maybe I should re-evaluate that policy. Maintaining a lit mag is undoubtedly a difficult job.

There were many other events that I enjoyed, including a staged reading of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, musical performances, and I bought several more books. But eventually my legs wore out and I was nearly past my spending limit, so after a quick stop at the Walters Art Museum and a local aromatherapy shop, I grabbed my bags and headed home. Good times.
Nancy O. Greene
http://www.portraits.bravehost.com

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