Kentucky Christian Writers Conference

Scholarship Success Story

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 17:43:00 +0000

In February 2016 I began searching writers conferences to attend this year. I had finally finished my Bachelors of Art Degree and was ready to begin anew promoting my writing career. I located the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. It was a drivable distance, and the dates made it a long weekend. The best part of all in my choosing was the Key Note speaker, Sandra Aldrich.

Sandra has been one of my best friends for nearly twenty years, mostly by email. I first met her at a Focus on the Family Single Parent Conference many years ago when my kids were still kids. She was such an encourager and a down to earth woman, not some celebrity ego. I wrote to her later and sent her something I had written, and she told me I should to submit it for publication. She is the first professional to take my writing seriously. I was very anxious to see her in person again.

There was one road block to any conference however, and that was money. I wasn’t sure if I could eek out the money necessary for the conference, hotel accommodations, and miscellaneous expenses. Then I found the link to apply for a scholarship, so I completed it. I provided a little information about myself and simply stated I didn’t believe I could attend without the help of a scholarship. I was very excited a few months later when they notified me that I had been granted a partial scholarship. I quickly went to work on my other finances to make certain I would be able to attend.

My delight began the first night at the meet and greet. Everyone was so very welcoming. I tend to be a bit shy when I meet someone brand new, especially if I am the new one in a crowd of people who know each other. It was also a joy to meet with people who spoke my language. Most people I know tend to either change the subject or get a “deer in the headlights” look when I get beyond the basics of being a writer. “Oh that’s nice. I guess that’s ok if it’s something you like to do,” they tell me.

Over the next two days I had to opportunity to take advantage of various workshops for fiction, non-fiction, marketing, and editor Q & A panels. We also had the wonderful experience of three keynote messages by Sandra Aldrich. Last, but not least, we had the opportunity to sign up for a 15 minute one on one appointment with a faculty member. Since I am a non-fiction author I signed up to meet with Dr. Dennis “Doc” Hensley, a literature professor, conference speaker, and author of more than 60 published books. I was very excited when Doc Hensley told me my writing is good, I have my “one sheet,” and my outline and the beginning of my first chapter are strong. He told me that with this, combined with my full rights to my first book, it is time I sought out an agent.

He suggested I attend the August conference at Taylor University where he teaches because there will be agents and editors there. I have already registered. It is my time to more proactively pursue my writing career, and attending the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference has given me the confidence to take the next steps.

Thank you, Kentucky Christian Writers, for the opportunity to be a part of this year’s conference. I’ll be certain to tell everyone what a great experience I had and encourage other writers to attend next year.

--Mina Raulston

More Registration Options: One Day Only, Walk-Ins Welcome

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 15:34:00 +0000

What if you're working on Friday, but would love to attend KCWC on Saturday? Or you have plans for Saturday and just want to enjoy your Friday with us? We can accommodate you. Visit our registration page to take advantage of the Friday only price of $175, or the Saturday only price of $100.

Do you have a friend wanting to go just one day with you? Then add on the Bring a Friend discount! You can still get $25 off your combined registration.

If you haven't had time to pre-register, we gladly accept walk-ins. Just show up at Grace Heartland Church on Friday or Saturday morning, and we will register you.

May the Lord bless and keep you all! We eagerly await meeting all of you.

Sincerely,
The KCWC Staff

Still Time to Register!

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Conference time is getting closer, but it's not too late to register for KCWC. We would love to see you there!

Check out our website at www.kychristianwriters.com for information about registration and about the conference. Our registration fees are some of the lowest around, and you get a lot of "bang for your buck" with all of the professional instruction, networking, and more.

Elizabethtown has a wide range of hotel options, and the Ramada Inn (270-769-9683) has a deal with the conference (subject to reservation deadline).

Walk-up registration is accepted during the conference, but you can reserve your spot today.

Calling All New Attendees

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Will the 2016 edition of Kentucky Christian Writers Conference be your first time at such an event? Are you nervous? Are you clueless about how to navigate classes and faculty/editor appointments? We have a class just for you!

So You're a Newbie: A Primer for First-Time Attendees is designed for YOU--the first-timer who doesn't quite know what to do at a writers conference. It will meet at 8:15 a.m. in Conference Room A, taught by yours truly, Carlton Hughes.

We'll address conference jitters; how to approach the classes and schedule; do's and don't's for meeting with editors/faculty members; and, most importantly, the spiritual aspect. We may even eat some chocolate!

I teach this class from my own experiences as a "newbie" at both KCWC and other conferences. Believe me, I've made every error in the book, and I don't want you to repeat those! I managed to overcome those mistakes to become a published writer. I'll tell you everything you need to know about being a first-timer, and, OF COURSE, we'll also have lots of FUN!

So all you newbies: set your alarms early for Friday, June 24! Register at 8:00 a.m. and then join me at 8:15! I'll be looking for you.

--Carlton Hughes
KCWC Blog Administrator
Newbie Class Teacher

The Food! 2016 Menu

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 19:32:00 +0000

As usual, Chef Steve MacDonald at Grace Heartland Church has a first class menu planned for the 2016 conference. If you have ever attended KCWC before, you know that meals are a highlight. We gather around the tables, rub elbows with our fine faculty, and swap stories over the most delicious food prepared with love.

Friday dinner of vegetable lasagna has become a staple for us. Steve knows we always request he make that for us. It is a crowd favorite! He obliges in his usual wonderful way.

You can also enjoy Arnold’s coffee brewed just for you each morning along with a coffee cake of Steve’s choice before worship at morning opening.

Since this is our 20^th anniversary, we will celebrate with a cake after dinner Friday night. Open Mic follows dinner and is a great time of fun and sharing excerpts from our writings. So many talented people attend KCWC, and we look forward to hearing them read a taste of their work. So bring something to share if you wish, but only two minutes worth or you will be GONGED!!! Our Emcees keep time, so don’t let the timer run out on you! Open Mic is always great entertainment, so don’t miss the fun.

And, to kick off KCWC, our preconference event Thursday night is Meet and Greet from 7-9. This is open to anyone interested. You do not have to be attending the conference to browse the bookstore, meet our faculty, and visit with the planning committee who puts this event together. Come and share some light refreshments, and meet others who love writing.

We look forward to seeing you.

--Pam Harlow

KCWC Hospitality Chair

FULL MENU:

FRIDAY LUNCH

Grilled Chicken

Hamburgers and Hot Dogs

Potato Salad

Broccoli Salad

Chips

Veggie Tray

Cobbler

FRIDAY DINNER

Steve’s Famous Veggie Lasagna

Salad

Breadsticks

20^th Anniversary Cake

SATURDAY LUNCH

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Rice

Key West Vegetables

Rolls

Lemon Pie

Conference Basics: Editor's Panel

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Tue, 31 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

This is one session that most people aren’t sure about or are least prepared for (sorry for ending with a preposition). The Editor’s Panel is held in the Chapel. It is basically an informal question and answer session. Some of the presenters (we try to include a variety of editors, publishers, authors, and those who have self-published) will be on stage, available to share information about the trends in the publishing market. They will also be available to answer your questions. So, the better you’re prepared, the better the session will be.

Suggestions: Write down some questions ahead of time – in a notebook, on a notecard, on your smart phone, whatever works for you.

Some topics you might like to know more about: Self-publishing vs. traditional publishing? The need for an agent? The need for an editor? Should you seek a major publishing house or a small press? What have they done that worked well? What didn’t? What would they do differently? Printed books vs. ebooks?

Do you get the picture? Start thinking about some of these questions now. We may even have you write them down on note cards before the session begins, to speed the process along. Remember, the better prepared you are, the more you’ll get from the session and from the conference in general.

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

Conference Basics: One-on-One

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Sat, 28 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

One of the most important features of our conference is the opportunity to talk one-on-one with one of our presenters. Clipboards will be set out in the main lobby sometime after the opening session. Each person doing one-on-one sessions will have their own clipboard with the time slots available.

We are anticipating a fairly large number of attendees this year, so please only sign up for one session. Write down your time, so you don’t forget! Don’t worry that it is during one of your classes. Presenters are well-aware of these consultations and won’t be offended when you slip out of the room quietly.

*The one-on-one sessions will be in the gym, in the end zones. The presenters’ names will be on the tables.

Guidelines:

· The faculty member may be an editor, a publisher, or a published author. S/he has agreed to read one poem, or one page of your story, book, article, etc. Have this typed or neatly written and prepared to share during your session. Please do NOT ask him/her to read more than the one page. If s/he asks for more, then it is perfectly acceptable to share more.

· Take notes. You don’t want to continuously ask your mentor to repeat the information.

· You will be allotted 15 minutes. PLEASE be professional and respectful and adhere to that timeline. The presenters have a busy weekend. They need breaks, too.

· Do NOT jump over to another presenter, just because s/he happens to be free at the moment. Their person could be running late. Besides, it is very unprofessional.

· When in doubt - - - Use good manners. J

Conference Basics:Networking Do's and Don't's

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Wed, 25 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Networking is a way to meet other people in the industry, from all levels of experience and expertise. Don’t focus only on the presenters. After all, their time is limited, and you don’t want to overwhelm them. Take the time to meet others and talk to people around you. Your fellow attendees have life experiences and knowledge that they can share, too. Below are some more dos and don’ts to help your conference be a successful one.

Do be prepared. Start networking before you even get to the conference. It’s important that you know about the presenters and their area of specialization. Take the time to visit the presenters' websites. You don’t want to demean people with questions like, “Now, what do you do?” or “Who are you with?”

Do be proactive. Introduce yourself. Get to sessions early so you can meet people. Sit in the front row so you’re in a good position to reach the presenter after the talk. Do thank the presenter, being specific about something you learned or appreciated. This is not the time to give a sales pitch. That will turn people off.

Do have business cards or something similar. If presenters ask you to contact them, you want to have your pertinent information handy. Make sure all the information is current, and cards with a small personal photo are best. A picture helps people put your name with a face. Don’t pass out your cards like a political candidate.

Do be a good listener. Be attentive. Take good notes. Plan ahead of time the questions that you need to ask. Enjoy talking to the other person. Here is a wonderful opportunity, so make the most of it by enjoying it as well as trying to connect. Don’t be on your cell phone, checking messages, or heaven forbid, talking! This tells people that you think you are more important than they are.

Do use good manners. Be considerate of the presenters’ limited time. One way of getting assurance that you’re not interrupting, nor being a nuisance, is to preface your conversation with something like, "Have I caught you at a bad time? I have a quick question I wanted to ask you." Don’t monopolize the conversation. Be brief; give other people a chance to talk. (And remember, presenters need breaks, too!)

Do learn how to excuse yourself gracefully. There will be times when the presenter doesn't turn out to be the right contact you were hoping to connect with, or it becomes apparent that the other person does not appear interested in talking with you (or doesn’t have the time). In this case, excuse yourself politely, thank them for their time, and continue your networking with other members of the conference.¹ Don’t take it personally. do

Do follow through. If you have promised someone to send them a specific piece of work, do so promptly, and if something happens that you can’t, let that person know. If you made a real and personal connection with a presenter, send an email or card, thanking them for their advice (suggestion, input, etc.) Stay in touch with fellow attendees, too. Remember, they can be a valuable source or sounding board. Don’t put away your materials from the conference. File your handouts for future reference. Type or rewrite your notes as soon as possible. It’s amazing how much you’ll forget (or can’t decipher later).

Lastly, do have a good time and learn as much as you can. We want your experience at KCWC to be not only beneficial, but enjoyable as well!

Citations: 1. www.wikihow.com

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

Conference Basics: Business Cards

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 23 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

I am a very honest person, to the point of being blunt. So let me be blunt. I, like at least thirty percent of the people in the world, have a major flaw. We will remember your face forever, will remember where and when we met, but we will probably forget your name five minutes after meeting you. Not very comforting when you’re trying to launch or improve your writing career, right? So, what’s a would-be author to do?

It’s simple; get a set of business cards. Many writers have a business card, even if they don’t have published credits yet. A business card, like an author’s website or blog, conveys an impression of professionalism and seriousness. It’s an important, yet inexpensive tool for making great connections. Add a headshot, and you’ll be batting a thousand!

The Basics of Business Cards

1. Business cards are as diverse as greeting cards. Shop around. With the internet, you can find several companies that offer inexpensive, and sometimes, free business cards.

2. How do you choose a design? The websites offer many designs, colors, styles, and fonts. Choose one that appeals to you. Find a style that matches not only your personality, but your genre as well. For example, if you write children’s stories, you won’t want a stuffy, formal-looking card. Look at other writers’ business cards. What do you like about them, and maybe more importantly, what don’t you like? What catches your eye?

3. Decide ahead of time what pertinent information you need to include. Do you want to include both a home phone and a cell phone number? Do you have a website related to your writing? Do you have a Facebook or Twitter account? Consider using the backside of your business card to include your author bio. When people take your business card home from a conference (along with many other cards), give them something so they’ll remember you.

4. Be creative, because the honest truth is: Most business cards are boring. When you’re a writer, you can’t let that happen to your business card. That little card is an opportunity to show off your talent. You want something on there that jolts their memory, and gives a sense of your personality.

5. Leave room for a headshot! You want people to remember you, so do everything you can to insure that.

6. Most importantly, like with all writing, edit your card! Is everything there? Did you spell everything correctly? Especially double-check email and web addresses. With auto-correct, your computer may change something important.

Other Tips

· If you have published work, give away business cards at the freebie table at a writing conference. If possible, include a picture of the book cover on the card. Attach a piece of candy as additional motivation for someone to pick it up.

· Punch a hole in the top of your business cards, thread a string or thin ribbon through, and offer them as mini bookmarks.

· Tuck your business cards in thank-you letters.

· Have them available to share at networking events, readings, and book signings.

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

KCWC 4-1-1: Selfies Not Allowed

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 19 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Believe it or not, sooner or later, you’re going to need a headshot, whether it’s for business cards, websites, social media, or hopefully, for a jacket cover. This year, for the first time, KCWC is offering the services of a photographer. A professional photo will make a better impression than a selfie. It’ll show that you have a sense of professionalism, and that you care about your work.

Helpful Tips for a Good Photo:

1. Be as refreshed as possible. Make a quick trip to the restroom to freshen up. Get a drink of water. Say a quick prayer, whatever it takes to relax.

2. Dress appropriately. This doesn’t mean you have to wear your Sunday-best. Choose a color that is flattering. Avoid white, loud colors, and busy patterns such as plaids, stripes, or florals. Make sure that your top or shirt fits well. You don’t want it too tight. Keep it simple.

3. Be yourself. If you normally wear glasses, wear them. Keep your hairstyle and makeup the same as usual. After all, you want people to be able to recognize you!

4. Be courteous. Be sure and arrive two or three minutes ahead of your schedule. Work with your photographer. He’s not a miracle worker, but if you have a request, don’t be afraid to ask. And, of course, make sure you end your appointment on time.

5. Smile. Smile with your eyes. Think of photos on book jackets. What appeals to you? What do you want yours to say?

6. A headshot should be a reflection of you. Are you fun and happy? Are you warm and friendly? Are you quirky? Are you the more dignified type? Let your photo show that. You want a headshot that will help others remember you.

(Check out our website for more information about Tom and his services.)

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

Faculty Spotlight: Michele Chynoweth

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

We've added another faculty member! Meet Michele:

Michele Chynoweth, is the award-winning author of The Faithful One, The Peace Maker (set in NY, DC and Kentucky!) and The Runaway Prophet, modern day novels based on stories in the Bible. She is also an inspirational speaker, book coach and writing instructor for the Continuing Education program at Cecil College in her hometown of North East, MD. She has won several awards including the 2014 Readers Favorite International Book Award Silver Medal for Inspirational Fiction and her Area Toastmasters International Speech contest. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, she has a blended family of five children with her husband. Michele writes contemporary novels based on Old Testament stories filled with the same suspense, intrigue and romance found in the Bible yet written so that today’s readers can easily see themselves in the characters and understand what God is saying.

Workshops:

· It Takes One to Know One! Over the past 15 years award-winning author Michele Chynoweth has worked with a variety of editors and has developed a tried and true process for developing characters that's fun, flexible and really works - from coming up with names to creating profiles that portray your characters physically, emotionally and spiritually. She will help you develop believable, compelling characters that readers can really connect with, who make you laugh, cry and care. Part of that, of course, entails writing dialog that isn't contrived but natural, isn't boring but memorable. A screenplay writer as well, she'll even teach you how thinking like a movie director can help! She will include tips on how to write in various dialects, accents and more when your characters call for it, how research plays a part, and will take a look at the some of the most memorable characters of all time.

KCWC 4-1-1: Now What?

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 16 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

You’ve taken that all important first step. You have registered for the KCWC. Now what, you may ask. What should you expect?

First of all, you’re not alone. At some point, we have all been in your shoes. We are a fairly small conference, offering a more personal experience. Take comfort in knowing that you will be surrounded by caring individuals who share your love of writing.

When you arrive Friday morning, go to the Family Life Center. Check in at the registration desk and receive your attendee packet and name tag. If you’re new to the world of writing, you may be interested in attending one of our most popular sessions, the “Newbie” class. It starts at 8:15 and seating is limited, so be sure and get there early. Feel free to walk around, check out the book store, and meet others. Just don’t forget to go to the opening session at 9:00!

Besides the keynote sessions and workshops, you may also sign up for an appointment with a faculty member. These one-on-one sessions are limited to 15 minutes. You may share a single page of your writing and ask for input. Remember, not every faculty member is an editor, but (s)he has experience in the writing market and is a viable asset.

Networking is important. You need to get to know people in the industry. Take the time to meet people and make a great first impression. Consider bringing business cards with you. Even though you may not be published, the card can be a good way for others to remember you. So, be sure all your information is current and correct. Including a small picture of yourself on the card is a good reminder. If you don’t have business cards, you can create some yourself on your own computer. Keep it simple. (See also, “Dos and Don’ts of Networking”)

Friday evening, after dinner, we will have a special recognition in honor of our twentieth anniversary. This is a time for socializing, meeting the presenters, getting a book autographed, and learning more about KCWC (and it’s the greatest meal of the conference!!).

Besides all this, after dinner, we will have an “open mike” time. Attendees and presenters are encouraged to bring a copy of their work and read a selected passage. Each person will be limited to approximately 2 minutes.

Come ready to learn, ready to make new friends, and ready to get motivated. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

Conference 4-1-1: Meet & Greet

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Sat, 14 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Hey! I’m Trish, and I’m going to be sharing some information about the KCWC. I don’t know about you, but when I attended my first conference, I knew absolutely NOTHING about the writing industry. It’s seven years later, and I still don’t know a whole lot (mainly because I’m now busy behind the scenes), but I want to share some of the basics with you so you’ll know what to expect. Hopefully you’ll be better prepared, which will enable you to get more out of the conference.

Meet and Greet

It was two years after I’d attended my first KCWC conference before I knew what the Meet and Greet was and who was allowed to attend. I thought it was only for the speakers and the committee members. Wrong.

The Meet and Greet is for all the faculty, attendees, and committee members. It will be held on Thursday evening, from 7:00 – 9:00 in the Family Life Center of Grace Heartland Church. (Entrance is the covered portico in the center of the left building.). This is an informal event, where you can come and meet some of the presenters, the planning committee members, and fellow attendees. Name tags are encouraged and can be found at the registration desk as soon as you walk in. Light refreshments will be provided.

Some presenters, as well as some attendees, will have their books on display and for sale. If you ask nicely, they’ll even sign your book! (Just kidding. They’ll gladly do it anyway.) You can drop in and stay a few minutes or come and stay the whole time. It’s a great way to start off the conference.

Trish Nall, KCWC Treasurer

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Stephen M. Vest

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 12 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

We conclude our Faculty Spotlight series with Stephen M. Vest, who will provide invaluable insights into magazine writing.

Stephen M. Vest, is the editor and publisher of Kentucky Monthly magazine. A native of Louisville, he lives in Frankfort with his wife and four children. Prior to founding Kentucky Monthly in 1998, he worked for more than a dozen years as a columnist and sportswriter for papers in Kentucky, Indiana and the Carolinas. THAT Kind of Journalist, a collection of his columns from Kentucky Monthly, was published in 2008. He is a recent Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Nonfiction graduate of Murray State University. His work has been published in ShimmyHoots Review, The Single Hound and Trajectory. To find out more about Steve email steve@kentuckymonthly.com.

Workshops:

· Magazine Writing 101: The Basics of Placing Your Writing in Periodicals. The dos and don'ts for working with publications and the best ways to pitch your work.

· Practice, Practice, Practice: Some ideas on how to make your writing better and how to jump-start the creative process.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Virginia Smith

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 09 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

It's been far too long! KCWC is pleased to welcome back Virginia Smith!

Virginia Smith, is the bestselling author of twenty-eight novels, an illustrated children’s book, and over fifty articles and short stories. An avid reader with eclectic tastes in fiction, Ginny writes in a variety of styles, from lighthearted relationship stories to breath-snatching suspense. Her books have been awarded multiple awards including the Carol, the Daphne, the Maggie, and the National Reader's Choice Award. Two of her novels have received the Holt Medallion Award of Merit. Learn more about Ginny and her books at www.VirginiaSmith.org.

Workshops:

· "The Myths of a Career in Writing": Interested in becoming a career author? Publishing veteran Virginia Smith shares the lessons she has learned from her career as a professional writer.

· "Elements of a Story": Every story, regardless of genre, consists of three elements: Plot, Setting, and Character. Virginia Smith will walk through the each in detail, and share advice on how to make your novel the strongest it can be.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Carlton Hughes

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 05 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

New to KCWC this year? Let Carlton help you navigate the waters of a writers conference!

Carlton W. Hughes, is a communications professor at Southeast Kentucky Community College and coordinates the Dual Credit Program at Harlan County High School, where he also teaches part-time. He is children’s pastor at Lynch Church of God and won the 2013 Shepherd’s Cup Award, the highest honor for children’s pastors in the Church of God denomination. Hughes is also a year-round volunteer and Relay Center Coordinator for Operation Christmas Child. As a writer, his works have been featured in numerous publications, including the books Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, Simple Little Words, and a Christmas play anthology from Carpenter’s Son Publishing. Hughes is a two-time first-place winner in the “Dramas/ Plays/Scripts” category in the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Writers Contest. He has also served as a textbook/standardized test ancillary writer for McGraw-Hill and Oxford Publishing. He resides in Cumberland, Kentucky, and he and his wife Kathy have two sons, Noah and Ethan. He is a fan of chocolate, good books, basketball, and classic television shows like “I Love Lucy.”

Workshop:

· So You’re a Newbie: A Primer for First Time Attendees: Are you wondering what in the world you do at a writer’s conference? Do you have a fear of editors? Conference veteran Carlton Hughes will provide advice for first time attendees: getting the most out of conference sessions, practicing editor etiquette (how to talk to editors, do’s and don’ts), promoting your work, developing relationships, and more. Join us for a fun, fast-paced primer.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Dennis E. "Doc" Hensley

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 02 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

If you have never heard Dennis "Doc" Hensley, you don't know what you are missing.

Dennis E. Hensley, Ph.D., is chairman of the Department of Professional Writing at Taylor University, where he holds the rank of full professor. He is a monthly columnist for Christian Communicator magazine and an annual judge for the Evangelical Press Association Awards and the Christy Fiction Awards. Dr. Hensley's ten novels include The Caribbean Conspiracy and Pseudonym (Whitaker House), and his 50 nonfiction books include How to Write What You Love and Make a Living at It (Random House), Millennium Approaches (Avon), Jesus in All Four Seasons (Bold Vision Books), Man to Man (Kregel), and Jesus in the 9 to 5 (AMG Publishers). His best-selling motivational book, The Power of Positive Productivity (Possibility Press) has been translated into eight languages, including Russian, Romanian, Italian, and Turkish. Dr. Hensley has had more than 3,500 articles, features, devotions, interviews, and short stories published in such periodicals as The Writer, Reader's Digest, People, Essence, Writer's Digest, War Cry, Evangel, The Detroit Free Press, The Indianapolis Star, and The Secret Place, among many others. He is a recipient of the "Elizabeth Sherrill Lifetime Achievement Award for Writing and Speaking" and the "Indiana University Award for Teaching Excellence." Dr. Hensley served as a sergeant in the United States Army and was awarded six medals for service in Vietnam. He and his wife Rose have two grown married children and four grandkids.

Workshops:

· Foundational Aspects of Nonfiction Writing: In this first session Doc Hensley will offer 18 points of contemporary writing, explaining how to communicate effectively with modern readers who are used to split screens, text and tweet messages, and email blitzes. He will also teach participants how to gain writing momentum, face down writer’s block, and quickly organize ideas for articles and features.

· The Nuts and Bolts of Nonfiction Writing: In this third session Doc Hensley will reveal how to create titles that grab readers’ attention, how to write gripping leads, how to find article ideas that always interest editors and readers, and how to make an effective book proposal pitch when selling a nonfiction book. By sharing successful techniques he has used to sell thousands of articles and more than 50 books, Doc will provide key insights on how to write and sell manuscripts to contemporary markets

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Julie Gwinn

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome back Julie Gwinn!

Julie Gwinn, most recently served as Marketing Manager for the Christian Living line at Abingdon Press and before that served as Trade Book Marketing Manager and then Fiction Publisher for the Pure Enjoyment line at B&H Publishing Group, a Division of LifeWay Christian Resources. Last year she was awarded Editor of the Year from the American Christian Fiction Writers and won B&H’s first Christy award for Ginny Yttrup’s debut novel Words. She has more than 25 years public relations and marketing experience and has also worked in marketing for several Nashville non-profit organizations including the TN Assoc. for the Education of Young Children, the Nashville Area Red Cross and the YWCA. She is married and has two children.

Workshop:

· Marketing for Authors: This workshop will help you identify, define and implement a brand and brand strategy for you and your writing that sets you apart from the crowd and gives you a leg up on Discoverability with readers. Attendees will walk away with actionable ideas they can apply right away!

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Kelly Thorne Gore

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Let Kelly help you plan success at KCWC!

Kelly Thorne Gore, is the Founder and President of iBloom. She and her team are on a mission to revolutionize the way women do business and live life. She started iBloom ten years ago with a dream to inspire women. To inspire means to breathe life into hopes, dreams, and goals and that’s exactly what the iBloom team strives do every day. iBloom is passionate about equipping women to build successful businesses while making time for the priorities that matter most. Kelly is the author of iChoose2 Love My Life, iBloom in Business, and the iBloom Life & Business Planner. To learn more about Kelly, go to https://ibloom.co/.

Workshop:

Don't Just Dream It, Do It: How to Create Your Success Strategy: Do you ever think, "Enough already?!?! Why haven't I done ______ yet?" If you can relate, don't beat yourself up. You probably just haven't had the right map to get there. In this session, you’ll get the tool to create your personalized map {aka Success Strategy}, to take you from dreaming about it to finally doing it. You’ll create your definition of success, clarify your priorities and how you'll intentionally live into them, identify your personal and business goals, and create an action plan for making it all a reality. Then you’ll be well on your way to, finally, shouting from the rooftops: "I DID IT!"

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Jeff Gerke

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

KCWC is pleased to welcome Jeff Gerke to our faculty roster!

Jeff Gerke, When you’re truly ready to make your fiction publishable, it’s time to call Jeff Gerke. Jeff trains novelists how to better do what it is they’re trying to do. He trains through his books for Writers Digest: The Irresistible Novel, Plot Versus Character, The First 50 Pages, Write Your Novel in a Month, and The Art & Craft of Writing Christian Fiction. He trains through the many writers’ conferences he teaches at all over the country every year. He trained his authors when he ran Marcher Lord Press, the premier publisher of Christian speculative fiction, which he sold after an award-winning 5-year run. And he trains through the freelance editing he does for his clients at http://www.jeffgerke.com. Jeff is known for his canny book doctoring skills and his encouraging manner, which leaves writers feeling empowered and like they really can do this thing after all. He lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and three children.

Workshops: Please note, Jeff will be joining us remotely via livestream, not in person.

· Rules, Shmools: If you’ve studied the craft of fiction very long, you have encountered many so-called rules of good craftsmanship. Don’t include a prologue, don’t use -ly adverbs, don’t head-hop, don’t bury your dialogue, don’t tell when you could show, don’t use to-be verbs, etc. And if you’ve studied fiction craftsmanship a bit longer, you’ve encountered teachers giving contradictory rules: Prologues are great, -ly adverbs are fine, omniscient POV is a legitimate style of fiction, buried dialogue is a silly thing to talk about, some telling is useful, to-be verbs are useful. It doesn’t take too much of that paradox to become paralyzed in your writing. How can you both have and not have a prologue? In Part 1 of The Irresistible Novel, I cover more than 100 of these rules. I show that they are preferences and opinions, not actual rules. I give pros and cons of each, I reveal what I personally do, and I give you permission to do it as you wish. I also give tips for how to write as you please and yet still get past the publishing gatekeepers. In this class, you’ll finally get unstuck and reclaim the fun of writing stories.

· Hacking Your Reader’s Brain: Did you know that neuroscience has shown what happens in a person’s brain when the story they’re encountering is boring? Or what’s happening when the story is engaging? Oxytocin, adrenaline, and dopamine are sent coursing through an engaged reader’s brain—and those things don’t flow at all in a bored reader’s brain. In Part 2 of The Irresistible Novel, I worked with a neuroscientist who studies reader/viewer engagement to arrive at the techniques you must use to 1) catch the reader’s attention in the first place and 2) engage her so utterly with your tale that she not only reads through the novel as fast as she can but also tells everyone about your book. Come hear the simple but essential methods for hacking your reader’s brain.

Faculty Spotlight: Hallee Bridgeman

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Need advice for writing? Self-publishing? Come hear Hallee!

Hallee Bridgeman, is a best-selling Christian author who writes action-packed romantic suspense focusing on realistic characters who face real world problems. Her work has been described as everything from refreshing to heart-stopping exciting and edgy. Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband.
Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her.

Workshops:

· Seven Steps to Successful Self Publishing: Bestselling indie author Hallee Bridgeman will go over the seven steps to successful self publishing, and then show you tips and tricks for the current market.

· Writing in Layers: Hallee Bridgeman will go through her process for writing efficiently and fast -- her secret to writing a novella in a week.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Gregg Bridgeman

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

More publishing expertise . . .

from our friend Gregg!

Gregg Bridgeman, began operating Olivia Kimbrell Press in 2011 acting as Editor-in-Chief. Then as now, he operates the press as a ministry. The primary objective remains that of lifting up and helping ministry-minded Biblical authors fulfill the Great Commission -- to bring the Gospel message to the entire world -- for every tribe and every nation. Gregg currently serves in the National Guard, is a decorated combat veteran, and is best known for his technical savvy and attention to the smallest detail.

Workshops:

· Free (or Almost Free) Tools for Authors: The World Wide Web is filled with tools authors can use to make their writing lives easier, more efficient, and in times, better. Gregg Bridgeman will share the tools he's found and explain how to use them.

· Advanced EBook Formatting: For people who already understand eBook formatting and indie publishing, this class will teach you advanced eBook formatting to help make the final product look professional in any eReader.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Mike Burnett

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Looking for help with printing, e-publishing, etc.? Mike is your guy!

Mike Burnett, started in the printing business in 1983 selling equipment. From marketing the equipment to produce print, he eventually moved into printing directly. Currently he is the C.O.O. of Dockins Graphics Inc. and Director of Printing for Pathway Press. The umbrella of companies under Dockins include two self-publishing companies, Derek Press (a religious self-publishing mark) and Penman Publishers (a non-religious self-publishing mark) as well as two printing companies.

Workshops:

· eBook, Print, or Both? In this session we will discuss should you be printing at all any more or just selling through eBook channels. We’ll talk about costs of each, differences in formatting and layout for each avenue. You’ll leave with a copy of the presentation and some new ideas.

· Publishing 101: In this workshop we’ll discuss nuts and bolts of setting up your book. Format, Flow, Editing and typical publishing styles. We’ll also talk about the state of the publishing industry and how that may impact how you present your new creation. You’ll leave with a copy of the presentation and checklists on formatting and style.

2016 Faculty Spotlight: Simeon Amburgey

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0000

If you have attended KCWC in the past, you have probably heard our next Faculty Spotlight lead worship. Read on to see what else he does!

Simeon Amburgey, has served the Lord through music for over 26 years. His ministry focuses on providing resources to churches and individuals who desire to develop their music ministries. He does this by providing arranging and recording services, hosting a music library with nearly 800 titles, offering Praise Tracks, custom arrangements, conducting praise and worship concerts and music consulting and mentoring. Simeon also serves as accompanist for Larnelle Harris. To learn more about Simeon and his musical services go to Sound Creations, Inc.

Workshops:

· The World Is Waiting To Hear Your Song: Each of us goes through many experiences in their lifetime. These experiences, friendships, relationships, etc. form the notes, melodies, rhymes, and rhythms of our life songs. No two are alike and are never truly realized until they have been given a voice. In this workshop we will talk about some ways to bring your song to life and how to share it with the world using the tools you might already have available to you.

2016 Faculty Spotlight One: Sandra P. Aldrich

noreply@blogger.com (God's Prof) — Sat, 02 Apr 2016 15:43:00 +0000

We begin our annual Faculty Spotlight series with the one, the only . . . Sandra P. Aldrich, our keynote speaker! Look for faculty spotlights to appear twice weekly over the next six weeks.

SANDRA P. ALDRICH, a Harlan County, Kentucky native, is an international speaker and author or co-author of 22 books. Known for her Kentucky story-telling style of speaking and writing, Sandra loves the Lord, family and all things Appalachian. She has a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, but says her varied audiences seem more impressed with her Ph.D. from the School of Hard Knocks. She may be reached at www.sandraaldrich.com.