Federation of Poets

Griffin Poetry Prize Trustees Announced

2011-09-21T22:36:00.000-07:00

Griffin Poetry Prize Trustees

TORONTO – September 21, 2011 – The trustees of The Griffin Trust For Excellence In Poetry are pleased to announce that Heather McHugh (USA), David O'Meara (Canada), and Fiona Sampson (UK) are the judges for the 2012 Griffin Poetry Prize.

Heather McHugh

Heather McHugh was born in San Diego, California. She has published volumes of poetry, translation and essays, and for over 35 years has taught and lectured at universities. She is Pollock Professor of Poetry at the University of Washington, and one of the original visiting faculty at the fabled Warren Wilson MFA Program in Asheville, NC. In 2001, she and Nikolai Popov won the inaugural International Griffin Poetry Prize for their translation of Glottal Stop: 101 Poems by Paul Celan. In 2009 she was named a MacArthur Fellow. Her most recent volume of poetry, Upgraded to Serious, was published in the US and Canada. (Click here for additional bio details.)

David O'Meara

David O'Meara was born in Pembroke, Ontario. He is the author of three collections of poetry, and a play, Disaster. His most recent book is Noble Gas, Penny Black. His work has appeared in a number of magazines and anthologies, including The New Canon, and The Echoing Years, a co-Irish/Canadian anthology. He has been shortlisted for the Gerald Lampert Award, the ReLit Prize, the Trillium Prize, a National Magazine Award, four Rideau Awards (theatre), and was twice winner of the Archibald Lampman Award. He is director of the renowned Plan 99 Reading Series, a founding director of VerseFest, Canada's International Poetry Festival, and will be poetry instructor at the Banff Centre in September 2012. He continues to tend bar at the Manx Pub in Ottawa. (Click here for additional bio details.)

Fiona Sampson

Fiona Sampson is a poet, essayist and critic whose most recent books include a new edition of Percy Bysshe Shelley and Music Lessons: The Newcastle Poetry Lectures. Published in more than thirty languages, she has eleven books in translation including Patuvachki Dnevnik, which was awarded the Zlaten Prsten. In 2009, she received a Cholmondeley Award and was elected an FRSL; she has since been elected to the Council of the Royal Society of Literature. She has received the Newdigate Prize, Writer's Awards from the Arts Councils of England and of Wales and from the Society of Authors and has been shortlisted twice for both the T.S. Eliot Prize and Forward Prizes. She is currently Distinguished Writer at the University of Kingston and Visiting Research Fellow at the Institute of Advanced Studies, University of London. Her critical survey of contemporary British poetry, Beyond the Lyric will appear in autumn 2012. (Click here for additional bio details.)

Judges

All three judges understand the importance of the Griffin Poetry Prize’s international reach and may consequently call in books of English language poetry from around the world.

The shortlisted books (four International and three Canadian) will be announced on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at a press conference in Toronto, Canada.

The Griffin Trust For Excellence In Poetry is pleased to announce that the Shortlist Readings will take place in the magnificent Koerner Hall at The Royal Conservatory in the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning, on Friday, June 22, 2012.

The winners of the Griffin Poetry Prize will be named at an awards ceremony to be held on Saturday, June 23, 2012.

Note to Publishers:
The submissions deadline for the 2012 Griffin Poetry Prize, for books published between January 1 and December 31, 2011, is Saturday, December 31, 2011. Submitted books must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2011.

If you have any questions regarding the rules, or would like to download an entry form, please visit our Web site, at:
www.griffinpoetryprize.com/how-to-enter/rules/

For further information, please contact:

Ruth Smith

Manager

E-mail: info@griffinpoetryprize.com

Do You Know How to Be Your Own Publicist?

2011-09-14T18:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Member,

The Writers’ Union is seeking two members who are subject matter experts and skilled presenters to create and deliver
professional development workshops on the topic of “How to be Your Own Publicist.”

Specifically we are seeking one member who can present on traditional but innovative book marketing and one who can
present on maximizing digital marketing platforms and new media. Both presenters should have a track record of success in
self-marketing and be engaging speakers.

Each presenter will be responsible for:

developing and delivering three-hour presentations in a series of full-day workshops in five Canadian cities,
developing and delivering a condensed presentation for two shorter webcast sessions, and
providing a 600-word article based on their presentation for publication in Write magazine.
All workshops are expected to be delivered in February or March in 2012 and again in 2013.

Fees, travel and accommodation are paid in accordance with the program budget.

The Professional Development program is made possible with assistance from the Department of Canadian Heritage. Its
purpose is to enhance the careers of book writers, whether unpublished, emerging, or established.

Interested members are invited to submit an expression of interest including:
an outline of their proposed presentation, and
a brief bio highlighting their self-marketing and presentation experience
to Kelly Duffin, Executive Director of the Writers’ Union of Canada. Submission deadline is September 16, 2011.

For any questions, contact Kelly at kduffin@writersunion.ca or 416-703-8982 ext 221.

Good Luck.

Tracy Repchuk
President of the CFP

Michelle Obama - Poetry Helps Us Connect

2011-07-01T04:07:00.000-07:00

When I was young, I was a passionate creative writer and sort of a poet. That's how I would release myself. Whenever I was struggling in school, or didn't want to go outside and deal with the nonsense of the neighborhood, I would write and write and write and write. I think it was my writing that sort of prepared me for so much of what I've had to do in my life as an adult.

Robert Frost once wrote, "A poem begins as a lump in the throat." In writing poetry, you all put words into that kind of emotion. You give voice to your hopes, your dreams, your worries and your fears. And when you do that, when you share yourself that way, and make yourself vulnerable like that, you're taking a risk. And that's brave.

And when you write poetry, you're not just expressing yourself. You're also connecting to people. And that's the key to everything we want to be and do as human beings - is our ability to connect to one another.

Think about how you feel when you read a poem that really speaks to you, one that perfectly expresses what you're thinking and feeling. When you read that, you feel understood, right? I know I do. You feel less alone. I know I do. You realize despite all our differences, there are so many human experiences and emotions that we share.

And poetry doesn't just show us how much we share. It also exposes us to wonderful new ideas and experiences. It helps us see the world in an entirely different way. As Rita Dove once wrote, "What writing does is to reveal. A good poem can awaken our senses and help us notice things that we've never noticed before. It can take us to places we've never gone - to a mountaintop or a battlefield or a city halfway around the world."

And I know that writing poetry is not easy. I know that sometimes you really got to work hard to make it happen. I know that it can be discouraging when you're struggling with writer's block and you can't find that word that is just right, or get that line exactly the way you want it to be.

So I want you all to keep at it. Keep taking those risks. Keep having the courage to share your work, which is so important. That was the best part of writing - it was reading it back to my mother, making them sit and listen to my work. And I also had to read it and perform it. So keep sharing, keep reading poetry, and learning from other poets.

And even if you don't grow up to be a professional poet, I promise that what you learn through reading and writing poetry will stay with you throughout your life.

Edited from remarks made May 11 in the State Dining Room at the White House.

Copyright: The St. Louis American, June 2011

Social Media You Pay For - Really?

2011-05-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

Social Media You Pay For?

Yep, that's what it has come to.

So why would someone pay?

- to be able to be heard
- to join a community that is exactly what you are looking for
- to get real advice from successful people in your field
- to leverage skills of 'friends'

That is what I am doing, and why I joined

It's a real community of people who have thriving businesses, and know what it takes to create an online business, or build a business.

I'm eager to connect you with someone, who I think will really be able to kick things up for you.

He's the best-selling author of Impact: How to Get Noticed, Motivate Millions and Make a Difference in a Noisy World, and the popular host of a series of live events that bring together top-level marketers, entrepreneurs, business owners, corporations and non-profit organizations to create multi-million dollar joint venture relationships.

He creates incredible, intense impact for product launches and multi-million dollar profits in
surprisingly short timeframes.

In fact, he has managed product launches ranked in the top 400 sites on the Internet, but he also works with select individuals to help them create a decent living utilizing the power of the Internet.

It's the world's only PROVEN comprehensive partnering building system focused entirely on
making sure that your ideas, products and services spread like wildfire to millions of people each day through the amazing leverage of science, technology, collaboration, marketing and partnering -- to build solid profits for your business or organization.

There's a "Members Only" Impact Social Network and Partnering System, a Perpetual Learning Series of Webcasts, a resource center with 100's of hours of audios, videos and other resources.

And ... there are opportunities for facilitated masterminds, joint Impact projects and even
mentoring if you are interested.

This group is by invitation only, but I want you in and I've got an invitation for you.

This group is intimate, so that REAL relationships get made and solid value is exchanged.

Social Media You Pay For

Check it out.

See you on the other side.
Tracy Repchuk
Your Recurring Riches for Life Coach

PS -

Selling Your Books Online for Poets by Tracy Repchuk

2011-05-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

SELLING YOUR BOOKS ONLINE

WARNING: The Opportunity Missed

With so many poets getting their works published, I wanted to assist you in how to sell your books online.  Many people are making the mistake of only having the books they have listed on one page with a buy now button - however this is a way NOT to sell them. Promote every book separately. Having them on one page is fine - just don't promote that page. Think commercials - one product sells at a time - that is how you promote effectively. Not only is this good for buyer attention span - it is good for your title with Google.  Every book you have should have it's own domain name which is the title of your book. Even if the site is one page it should completely focus their attention on just ONE thing - falling in love with, and buying your book! That is why commercials work - focus on one thing only.  ie. ThePoetryofBusiness.com  It should talk about the book from the perspective of what's in it for the reader. Not about you and why you wrote it.  ie. This book will transform the way you look at the simple pleasures of life so that all things are renewed for you. And should continue on for quite a while about this. You have to think about the benefits to the reader.  Then you talk about you, your story, your accolades, your credibility if it applies.  Then you have a BUY NOW button.
If you REALLY want to make it an easy decision, build in value by offering 'free gifts' if they buy today. This won't be something you ship, it is something you provide by a download page and link.

For example: Free Bonus Gifts valued at $29
- Free bookmark (if you ship yourself)
- ebook version of Walt Whitman Leaves of Grass
- find an inspiration quote or picture
- Link to an inspiration video

For my poetry book I gave away reports that linked to my topic. Some people buy because the perceived value of the bonus gifts is more than the cost of the book. Sounds dumb - but that is why infomercials work so well.

Where do you get free stuff to give them - www.Gutenberg.org - EVERYTHING up there is up for grabs. It is expired copyright materials. Search poems, poetry, writing poetry, anything that fits your topic. Search google for poetry resell rights. Sometimes you have to pay a small fee but you can give it away over and over again.

Tracy Repchuk
Bestselling Author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles

PS - Get a copy of the internet marketing bible of today at http://tinyurl.com/31amazon

April Poetry News Makers - World Records, Tracy Repchuk, Books Published

2011-05-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

CFP MEMBER NEWS

Tracy Repchuk -

* Spoke in Fort Lauderdale at Women's Event luncheon and my own Power of 3 event

* Spoke in Boston at my own event

* Spoke in Scottsdale, Arizona at own event

* Spoke in Denver at own event

* Spoke in Clearwater Florida at own event and Connections Convention as a keynote speaker

* Keynote speaker for United Shoe Retailers Association

* Appeared on Fox TV for 30 minute interview

* Appeared in Mode Lifestyle magazine

* Just booked speaking engagement for UK and France

* Nominated for Entrepreneur Leader of the World Award

www.ThePowerof3WorldTour.com

Cheryl Xaveir
* Just launched her new book "Bruised but unbroken"

Dimitris P Kraniotis
* Participating in the 22nd World Congress of Poets in Greece

Suzanne Hunter:
* Received 3rd prize for her poem "Turning Tide" from the Dr William Henry Drummond poetry contest

Stephen Gill:
* On a literary tour to India visiting campuses of colleges and universities for his book Coexistence.

Flavia Cosma:
* Released her book "Moonlight Fairy Tales"

Beth Skala:
* Awarded an Honourable Mention in the William Henry Drummond Poetry Contest for her poem "Raven Has My Number"

Nikhil Parekh:

* Has added 2 more Limca World Records for his works

http://worldrecordsandrewrads.blogspot.com

Perparim Kapllani:

* Just released the book "Beyond The Edge Stories"

Maria Marchelletta:

* Just released her book "Sentieri dell'Anima - Journey of the Soul"

Congratulations to these members of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk - Why You Should Be Using BlogTalk Radio

2011-01-26T17:27:00.000-08:00

BLOG TALK RADIO - USE IT!

For poets, there is a fantastic promotional tool you can take advantage of - and even better - it's free.

I have appeared on radio stations now all over the world, but unless it is a show like Howard Stern - radio doesn't make a lasting impression - unless it is www.BlogTalkRadio.com

Here's why
- the radio show is kept on the internet forever
- you can access the show via mp3 and send it to your fans, post it on your blog, your facebook page, tweet about it
- you can take that audio, add it to a powerpoint, and make a YouTube vidoe out of it, and blast to all your social media contacts

It is making a huge impact out there.

Plus - there is tons of radio shows devoted to poetry where you can get interviewed, interview others, or just read your poetry on your own channel and build a network of listeners.

So next time you need publicity, or want to share your poetry with more users - open up a free account on www.BlogTalkRadio.com and
start sharing.

Check out a free audio replay of an interview that was done by Dolores Seright for an upcoming book she is doing on successful women. Here is the interview:
Tracy Repchuk Interview Preview

Canadian Federation of Poets New Member Announce

2011-01-22T17:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome New Members of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Beth Skala - Nanaimo, BC

Shirley I Osborn - Los Angeles, CA

Aline Soules - Danville, CA, USA

Kerry Lynn Parsons - Lakefield, ON

Marc Mullo - Thunder Bay, ON

Dannabang Kuwabong - Hamilton, ON

Carol J Ogden - Vancouver, BC

Lois MacDonald - Whitby, ON

Michael Dyet - Brampton, ON

David MacLean - North Van, BC

Suzanne Hunter - Calgary, AB

Poetry for Life Project

Marilyn Edwards - Langley, BC

Darla Fisher-Odjig - Acton, ON

Raymond Miot - Verdun, QC

Michael Morris - Burnaby, BC

John Corvese - Burlington, ON

Irving Miller - Chicago, IL

Fotios Panos - Greece

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean
C.C, C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.
Governor General of Canada

Canadian Federation of Poets Renewing Members:

Renée Von Paschen

Maurus Cappa

Krow Fischer

David Brydges

Michael Cotterell

John Jansen in de wal

Judith Black

Najah Shuqair

Paul Hartal

Mary Anne Lonergan

Josie Di Sciascio-Andrews

Marlene Laplante

Neil Harding MacAlistair

Raymond Fenech

Maria Pia Marchelletta

Jodie Lindley

Rosa Hong Chen

Geneva Neale

Nikhil Parekh

Gary Pierluigi

Bernard Pelletier

Maria DiDanieli

It's Time To Think Poetry

2011-01-16T17:20:00.000-08:00

I don't think there has been a greater need for poetry, as now. With so many events occurring that are changing peoples lives, with the doom and gloom of the economy and world wide events - it is up to us to create a better world. It is up to us to write poetry that will uplift, give hope, energize, send love, create peace and let people know something can be done about it. Unlike the rappers who have chosen to contribute to the degradation of society, we will go the other way.

This year for me has already started fast out of the gates. You can see my news below for complete details as I completed my 2010 Power of 3 World Tour and have already started 2011 with 5 countries.

We have lots of activity happening with local Federations so be sure to check the calendar for dates and times.

Reminder If you haven't already registered to pay via paypal - it is time to renew/join using this method so you can continue to be a part of a great organization

www.Federationofpoets.com/paypal.htm

Thanks

Enjoy the month and keep on creating :)

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Join the Canadian Federation of Poets
www.FederationofPoets.com
Because Now You're Family!

Tracy Repchuk Februay News Update

2010-01-26T11:54:00.000-08:00

February News in Review for Canadian Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk -

* Spent 8 days cruising and masterminding in the Caribbean with my Dream Team mastermind members and presented to over 400 internet marketers on board

* Interviewed by Val Dawson of The Dawson Method

* Spoke for the Association of Strategic Marketers on Email Effectiveness and Deliverability Strategies

* Appeared on CCWN The Business Connection Show with Jacky Lopez

* Presenting in London, UK at the Ultimate List building Masters Event

* Full article released and hit the newsstands about me in UK’s “Company” magazine for presentation I made at Millionaire Entrepreneur’s Bootcamp in November

Tons going on this month - check it out in the full newsletter located at

Federation of Poets February News

Check us out and join this fantastic world wide organization.

Federation of Poets

Any questions, let us know.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Poetry Manuscript Gets $662,500

2010-01-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

Poetry Manuscript Gets $662,500

Are you ready for some good news bad news.

The good news, Edgar Allan Poe was recocognized at a Christie's auction in New York, when a rare 1827 edition of poetry sold for $662,500, a record for a 19th century book of poetry. Even more surprising, was two-pages of hand-scrawled verses from 1849 which netted $830,500, breaking the 19th century literary manuscript record. (It was the first eight stanzas of "For Annie," written for a passing love, Nancy L. Richmond.)

The bad news - he wasn't around to see it.

It's time to appreciate poets and poetry while we're living. :)

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Canadian Poet P.K. Page Passes

2010-01-15T06:55:00.000-08:00

Poet P.K. Page Passes

Canadian literary grande dame P.K. Page, long renowned for her poetry and other writing, died at the age of 93 at her home in Victoria.

Patricia Kathleen Page has amassed numerous awards and honours for her work both within Canada and abroad. In 1954, she received The Governor General’s Award in Poetry, and The Lieut. Governor’s Award for Literary Excellence in 2004. In 2000, her poem, “Planet Earth,” was chosen by the United Nations for its reading series, Dialogue Among Civilizations Through Poetry.

A companion of the Order of Canada, the British-born, Canadian-reared Patricia Kathleen Page was considered among Canada's most esteemed writers.

Four Canadian Federation of Poets Launch New Books on the Same Night

2009-12-10T18:29:00.001-08:00

Cheryl Xavier, our National Coordinator wants to invite you to the book launch of our own Federation of Poets members who are launching new books.

This is a very exciting as CFP poets hit the publishing world.

Here are the details:

Event: Book launch by In Our Words Inc.,
Fall/Winter catalogue

Swimming to the Surface: A collection of poems by Saskia Maddock

Musings of an Earth Angel: A collection of poems by Linda L. Dowd

On the Wings of Dawn: A collection of poems by Maria Pia Marchelletta

Moonlight Fairy Tales by Flavia Cosma

4 Federation poets launching at the same event!

Chief Guest is the Hon. Jason Kenney,
Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism

Mayor Hazel McCallion, Mayor of Mississauga

When?

Friday, December 11, 2009
5.30 pm—8.30 pm

Where?

730 Courtneypark Dr W, Mississauga, ON L5W 1L9

If you're in the area, go and congratulate Linda, Saskia,
Flavia and Maria - and get to know our new National
Coordinator - Cheryl Xavier - because she can help you
take your next steps.

If you have any questions - contact Cheryl at:
CherylX@federationofpoets.com

Have a great week.

Tracy Repchuk

President/Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

CFP Welcomes New National Coordinator and Oakville Federation Chair

2009-12-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

Thank-you
George Arnold

George Arnold, our current National Coordinator is moving to New Zealand, and even though he'll still be a part of the Federation of Poets, and is one of the original members, his hands on approach for our Canadian members will surely be missed, He will continue the CFP tradition in his new home in New Zealand as he joins his wife. His contact George@federationofpoets.com will still be the same, so be sure to keep in touch with him.

It has been a joy, a privilege and an honour to work with George all these years, and I deeply wish him much success in his new country.

(George Arnold and President and Founder Tracy Repchuk)

New National Coordinator

Cheryl Xavier is our incoming National Coordinator. Cheryl was an immediate powerhouse for the CFP as she created the Peel-Halton Federation of Poets, and attended numerous events on behalf of the CFP. In addition to her amazing skills, she is also a publisher of poetry books, and has assisted members in their book production cost effectively.

Feel free to contact Cheryl if you're interested in opening up a Federation/Group in your area.

She can be reached at CherylX@federationofpoets.com

New Chair for Oakville and Burlington Art Centre Federations

Saskia Maddock is a longstanding member of the Canadian Federation of Poets, a lifelong writer and lover of words, especially poetry. In 2008, she published her first book, life unmasked, comprising poems and short stories. Swimming to the surface is her second collection of poetry. Saskia describes herself as a Renaissance woman, balancing her work life with volunteer work, photography, travel, and devotee of theatre, music, and books. She is Chair of the Oakville Chapter of the Canadian Federation of Poets (CFP) and Burlington Arts Center Federation, Treasurer, Oakville Poetry Alliance, and member of Pelicans, Tower Poetry Society, The Ontario Poetry Society, and Peel Chapter of the CFP. Saskia resides in Oakville, Ontario with her family.

Federation of Poets Thanks George Arnold

2009-10-21T08:45:00.001-07:00

Do you Twitter - Social Marketing and Poets

2009-10-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

Do you Twitter? Social Marketing and Poets

Many of you may not have entered the world of social marketing, and many of you may be mastering it. So I'll just take a few minutes to give you a very easy tool you should be using to promote your poetry.

www.Twitter.com - this community has exploded and is rivaling Google and Facebook for popularity of use. In fact it has become such an important part of traffic generation and relationship building, that all the top topics at seminars have a twitter expert on board.

It is a fast way to update users with instant messages, or tell them what you're up to, events you are going to, exchange tips, tricks and ideas, and so much more.

You have 140 characters to get the message out fast, and often, and it is a great tool.

Go here:
www.Twitter.com/TracyRepchuk

start your own free account, and select the follow me option.
You will get a feel for what it is, and what you can use it for to promote yourself, and poetry.

If you're thinking how do I share my poetry in 140 characters, simply create a blog post on your blog or where ever and post your poem and create a link you put in your twitter message to drive readers there.

Use this tool to create a small link:

www.twitpwr.com

Here is a sample twitter post:

Read my latest poem "I am a wild child" at http://twitpwr.com/blogpost

Plus you can also have your twitter post autofeed to your Facebook page if you have one. If you don't that's next.

Check out my page: Tracy Repchuk's Facebook Page

And yes, both of these are good for poets.

Facebook for Poetry Promotion

2009-10-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

FaceBook for Promotions

So we have talked about Blogs, Twitter, YouTube, Kindle and ebooks -now I'll turn your focus to FaceBook.

Facebook is a social networking website that allows you to create a user profile, a fan page, post your events, communicate to others, instant chat with online friends, leave text messages, create a community of like-minded people, and promote your stuff – ALL FOR FREE.

Here is my page – www.FaceBook.com/TracyRepchuk

Go there, and start your own FaceBook page.

Click on the Green Sign Up button.

Add your photo – this is the first thing you want to do.

You can easily customize the page, and getting friends is as easy as requesting them.

You can post comments on other people’s pages, bringing attention to yourself immediately.

You can upload photos and videos

Facebook has more than 250 million active users (and among those are a lot of poets),

And the fastest growing demographic is over age 35.

More than 1 billion pieces of content are shared every week

More than 2.5 million events (lets get some poetry ones in there) are created every month

More than 120 million visitors every day

This is an environment just waiting for you – and creating your page is as easy as following their instructions.

So let’s go poets – and create your FaceBook page and start promoting your Poetry, poetry organizations, connecting – let’s get together and do this!

Tracy Repchuk
Bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Join the Federation of Poets Today

Federation of Poets Renewing Members

2009-09-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our continued supporters and members

Renewed Members:

Joanna Gale

Saskia Maddock

Linda Dowd

Judith Black

Tod Gaines

Susan Tearoe

Michael Cotterell

Brian Cobbledick

Richard Masterton

Stella Ducker

Josephine Stone

Najah Shuqair

Jim Greenwald

Rosa Hong Chen

Craig LaPlante

Renée Von Paschen

It's a pleasure continuing to support your poetry endeavours.

Tracy Repchuk

Bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles

Get your copy of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles Today!

Canadian Federation of Poets Latest New Members

2009-09-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

New Federation of Poets Members

Welcome New Members:

Marjorie Bruhmeller - Cookshire-Eaton, Quebec

Rena Nauen - Israel

Susan Tearoe - Greenwood, BC

Caroline Harriet - Ladysmith, BC

Martin Hayter - Victoria, BC

Aline Soules - Danfield, CA, USA

Rena Nauen - Israel

Stephanie Hodgins - Miss., ON

Tony Hellman - Burlington, ON

Beverly Baker - Mount Pearl, NFLD

John Jansen - Toronto, ON

Thomas Hemeon - Stratford, ON

Chen ou Liu - Ajax, ON

Mary Anne Lonergan - Newmarket, ON

David Franklin - Ottawa, ON

Gina Bolton - Redwater, AB

William J Galvin - Mississauga, ON

Ed Roberts - Oklahoma City, OK

Leif Norman - Winnipeg, MB

Canadian Federation of Poets News

2009-08-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

CFP MEMBER NEWS

Tracy Repchuk -

* Appeared on Build a Better Network to share my story and internet marketing endeavours

Nikhil Parekh
* Applied for another Limca World Record and expanded his YouTube presence: Nikhil Parekh Youtube poetry sample

Tod Gaines -
* Was a featured poet on a Hip Hop Radio show as he combined his poetry to music
(Good thinking out of the box)

Paul Hartal

* The Carrer Museum in Milan, Italy, issued this year six art stamps of Paul Hartal. Engraved on the margins of Portrait, Triumphal Arch, Landscape, Afternoon Faces, Victoria, and Blue Mountain, the colourful miniature visual poems display the name of the artist, the title of the work and the year 2009. An envelope mailed from Milan to Montreal this summer with a combined array of Italian postal stamps and Paul Hartal art stamps is marked over with the official cancellation seal of the Italian post. Founded in 1946, the Carrer Mail Art Museum and Archive in Milano houses thousands of works, among them by Salvador Dali, Max Ernst, Paul Klee, Pablo Picasso and Victor Vasarely.

http://www.mailart-carrer.net/035new%20works.htm

http://www.mailart-carrer.net/0242autori.htm

Mary Anne Lonergan -
* Her latest poems -"The Talons Of Prisms" was published in the The Ontario Poetry Society - Verse Afire

* The Newmaket's branch - Canadian Hearing Society has asked me to read a couple of her poems in September to expose hearing and deafness talents. One of the poem is called: "Deafness" and unsure yet what the other will be called till that time comes.

* Her second manuscript is now finished and she is working on her third.

Canadian Poetry - New Methods of Publishing Amazon Kindle

2009-08-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

The Cheapest Method of Publishing

Last month we talked about YouTube as a distribution
channel for your poetry. Nikhil Parekh is using that tool to its fullest.

This month I want to talk about 2 trends that are taking the internet by storm - and one of them is fast becoming a mainstream publishing alternative. Now I am not talking about self publishing places such as www.lulu.com where you can produce your own book, your way, and keep all of the profits versus a royalty publishing option - I am going to introduce you to Amazon Kindle and ebooks.
I'll start with an ebook - which simply is an electronic version or digital version of your book. It is a matter of creating the book as usual in a word processor, and saving it as a PDF, and selling that version.
For some who cherish the feel of a book and its pages you will think this is ridiculous, but I have made 10 x more on ebook sales, than made of book sale profits. The best part is there is no overhead, no inventory, no shipping, they get the book instantly, they enjoy your work and you make 100% profit.

I sell my bestseller 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles on Amazon, and make about $1.20 profit per book. I sell my ebook and make a $47 profit. In fact, I offer a workbook with my ebook, and 80% of the purchasers upgrade to the ebook/workbook combination and with this I make a $97 profit.
Here is that website if you want to look at the format 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles

Now some of you might be thinking – well that’s not publishing.

I would have to disagree, as does the world’s largest bookstore and distributor of books, who not only sells ebooks now, but even better – sells your book on a Kindle device – which is an electronic device that can hold hundreds of books.

Check out this article in Newsweek called "The Future of Reading"

This device which has taken the publishing industry by storm, and has the largest publishers in the world scrambling to create and modify their line up of books into this format.

And technically – it is an ebook, that appears on a device you carry – the size of a typical book for those who like to hold something as they read – you can take hundreds of books with you everywhere and always have access to your favourite stories – at the push of a button.

As a world traveler, I see them on planes all the time. You can read them at the beach. Anywhere -but what is really great for you as a poet and writer – is it’s free to create a kindle version, you can list it on the Amazon.com site like a normal book, and people can take you with them – anytime.

AND … it’s an accepted form of publishing, otherwise authors such as Stephen King, Donald Trump, Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje wouldn't be there - and they are!

AND… you don’t need a fancy publisher to participate.

Isn't the point of getting published to get your work out there, to share your story, get well known, and making money along the way would totally rock right?

Take a person like Julie Powell who did a blog about Julia Child's cooking - and now it's in a movie called Julie and Julia. Think she might make some money from that, have some influence, get a major book deal - so embrace some of the new technologies because you never know what the future will bring. Take publishing out of the box and just do it.

A great resource to also check out:

How to Prepare your Book for the Kindle Device

Tracy Repchuk
President of Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Join the CFP and be promoted in our newsletter, our site, and in our bookstore. Join today - Canadian Poetry At It's Finest

Poetry Publishing on YouTube

2009-07-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

PUBLISHING and POETRY
AND THE NEW LANDSCAPE

The book publishing industry is currently in turmoil but I want to start by saying "No worries - because you can do more than that."

What do I mean by that?
The average poet sells 35 books. A poet that travels, does book fairs, reads a lot - sells about 260 books. A famous poet, about a handful, gets a decent advance, and sells a few thousand copies.

96% of ALL books listed on on Amazon sell less than 1 copy per week, even less when it is in a traditional bookstore environment. The average attendees for a book signing is 8.
And the average profit of a self published book sold on Amazon is $2.50 (for a
$17 book) This is the goal of poets - to become a published author - to have a book - and having a published book is a great goal.

And even more of you want a traditional publisher - so your royalty goes to about $1.70 per book.

But right now, with books selling less and less, and your message becoming even
more important, you need to add to your 'book' goal - alternative methods of
publishing and promotion. Over the next few newsletters, I am going to give you
more details on different methods such as ebooks, kindle, CD, audio, podcasts,
blogging and comments, audio post card, newsletter, video, twitter, facebook, tubemogul,
teleseminar, virtual book tours, shared promotion, articles, cross promotion and others.

Today I am going to talk about YouTube. If you want to get your poem heard, by possibly thousands, so many more than your book - and get your message out - record yourself reading your poem

There are easy ways to do this.

1. Create a www.youtube.com account - it
is free to join. Here is mine - http://www.youtube.com/marketingmaestro

2. Put images together and then have the poem display. See
CFP member example - Nikhil Parekh

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVy5AL6x_40

3. You can record your audio on your computer and wrap some
pictures around it.
Here is my sample of that.
This is me reading from my book (this
video cost me $12 to have created)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ex-ESiOlfs0

4. Read your poem in front o a video or have a friend record you when you are at
an event. Here is an example of that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCp8h_MXTas

So a book is great, but the new publishing pardigm is Market, Medium and Message.

So reach the market, by using various mediums to spread your message.
There has never been a more important time for poets to emerge as positive
influencers such as what Nikhil Parekh does, and get the message out that can make the
world a better place.

If you're thinking I can't do this - I'm not technical - no worries - go to www.elance.com and someone there will do it for about $15. I have paid as low as $3 and high as $22. Really cheap for a huge impact that you can repurpose for about 8 other things.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Find out What are the Best Resources for Writers

2009-06-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

Writer's Digest just released the 2009 Best resources for writers.

Check them out

Best Resources for Writers

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

June Canadian Federation of Poets Newsletter

2009-06-02T00:12:00.000-07:00

Tons happening with the Federation of Poets members - check it out and then get the whole newsletter at - June Federation of Poets Newsletter

CFP MEMBER NEWS

If you are a CFP member with exciting news, let us know. Send an email with the news in it, and a subject line of CFP Member News.

Tracy Repchuk -

* May 16-17 - Appeared at
Dreams to Reality Success Summit
http://www.DreamstoRealitySuccessSummit.com
* Appeared on broadcast TV news stations nationwide (USA) for an internet search piece put together by Eyewitness News

Nikhil Parekh
* interview appeared online in the United States at Lulu.com. The Interview can be read online at Lulu by clicking on: Nikhil Parekh article

Stephen Gill -
* Presented his poetry on peace at Cornwall Public Library

Debbie Ouellet-
* April 11th, The Vaughan Poets’ Circle launched their new poetry anthology Earth to the Moon which Debbie edited and contains five of her poems.
* Debbie was asked to be a regular monthly contributor to the Truthseekers section of the blog Culture Unplugged where she writes about language, poetry and culture.
* Debbie Ouellet’s first picture book, How Robin Saved Spring, was named ‘Book of the Month’ in Cookie Magazine and ‘Kid’s Pick of the Month’ on Amazon.ca in April 2009.

March 20th, How Robin Saved Spring was reviewed on the blog, Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast where the reviewer included Debbie’s poem “Queen Anne’s Lace”.
On March 25th, Debbie did a presentation on writing poetry to 52 Grade-Six students at Woodbridge Public School in Woodbridge, Ontario.
Helen Barlev
* Voices Israel has a new website

Ed Roberts -

* His latest poem "Silence" was featured by the SOP, Student Operated Press, as an article and was listed on the front page of their site.

http://thesop.org/index.php?article=16272

* Also framed copies of his poem "Memorial"
which appeared in my latest book Whispers, Tears, Prayers and Hope, and presented them to The Veterans Memorial Hospital and the Veterans Center in Norman,

Lori A May -

* The Ambassador Poetry Project, a new online periodical featuring writers from Ontario and Michigan, is accepting submissions for its launch issue. Emerging and established poets welcome in all styles. Poetic narrative and digital artwork is also welcome. Emails containing attachments will not be opened. Please review the guidelines at www.ambassadorpoetry.com.

Canadian Federation of Poets Author Tony Hellman

2009-06-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

The Awakening is more then a book of eloquent poetic words, it is a life style.

What makes Tony’s work so different is that his writing style is motivational, inspirational, and his channeled messages clearly come through in his poems. His message is based on two basic truths, love and fear. These are the only emotions we face each and every day.

Tony chooses love, and works with poetry as a tool to teach others how to tame fear. This book will have a powerful affect on its readers. It will cause an emotional release, eliminating layers of pain. His words motivate you to take action and realize that superlative person that lives in each and every one of us. Tony says, “I ask you not to believe a word I say, as it is based on my experiences and life journey. You need to make your own decisions.”

Read what others are saying about The Awakening….testimonials are posted on

www.tonyhellmanheartofthepoet.com

This paperback is available at
Barnes & Noble http://www.bn.com,
Amzon.ca http://www.amazon.ca and
http://www.authorhouse.com

ISBN: 9781438966342

Signed copies available at Tony Hellman Awakenings

From Tracy Repchuk

Canadian Federation of Poets Founder and President

PS - Join today - Join the Federation of Poets and get promoted

Irving Miller - CFP Profile

2009-04-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

Irving F. Miller

I was born in 1934, in New York City, and educated at New York University, Purdue University, and the University of Michigan. I taught and administered programs in chemical engineering and biomedical engineering for almost 40 years at Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, University of Illinois at Chicago, and the University of Akron. I am the author of over 80 refereed articles and book chapters in science and engineering, over 200 abstracts and presentations, have edited and translated several monographs, and have received numerous science and engineering grants and awards. A casual poet for most of my life, I began writing seriously in 1995. Since my retirement from engineering education in 2000, my work has appeared in journals and chapbooks, as well as on several websites. My poems are currently under review by several journals.

Published poems:

Journals:
“Spaldeen”, in B. Bergan, ed., InPrint, Persiflage Press, Chicago, IL, 2001, 66-67.

“from Sun and Shadow”, The Aurorean: A Poetic Quarterly, Farmington, ME, Vol. XI, Issue 2, 2006, 47.

“Isaac”, Poetica Magazine, Norfolk, VA, November, 2008, 25.

“Last Song”, Meridian Anthology of Contemporary Poetry, Boca Raton, FL, Vol. VI, 2008, 32.

“Forever”, Poetica Magazine, Norfolk, VA, March, 2009, 35.

“Secret Place”, Free Lunch, Glenview, IL, No. 41, Spring, 2009, 32

“Certain Nights”, Poetica Magazine, Norfolk, VA, July, 2009, 8.

“How It Got Into The Talmud”, Kerem, Washington, DC, in press.

Group Chapbooks:

“T. Rex Listens to Poetry”, Big Table Poetry Group Chapbook, The Poetry Center of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 2004, 18.

“No One”, Big Table Poetry Group Chapbook, The Poetry Center of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 2004, 19-20.

“Blind Man’s Bluff”, Big Table 2005, The Poetry Center of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 2006, 25.

“Jabberwock”, Big Table 2005, The Poetry Center of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 2006, 26.

Solo Chapbooks:
“Moonburn”, Big Table Publishing Co., Boston, MA, 2009.

Electronic:
“Art Class”, on www.artworkshops.homestead.com, August, 2004.

“Lobster Cove”, on www.monhegan.com, October, 2004.

“Light Scheme”, on www.artworkshops.homestead.com, August, 2005.

“Fog”, on www.monhegan.com, September, 2005.

“Sun and Shadow”, on www.monhegan.com, November, 2005.

“Todai-ji”, on www.illinoispoets.org, April, 2008.

“Miss Murphy Teaches Sex”, Boston Literary Magazine, accepted for publication.

Readings:
Chicago Public Library, 10th Annual Poetry Fest, April 25, 2009, recorded for rebroadcast on WBEZ Chicago.

April is Poetry Month - Federation of Poets Events

2009-03-24T09:30:00.001-07:00

Tracy Repchuk here to remind you that April is Poetry Month. Here is a bit of news from one of our members, Najah Shuqair.

MEDIA RELEASE

The First Poetry Book Launch For A New Writer Benefits Cancer Patients

50% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go toward:
1) Breast Cancer Research
2) Cancer Research
3) Canadian Cancer Society

If you would like me to send you a photo. I can e-mail you one by attaching it to the email, I don't have one right now.

My name is Najah Shuqair. I started taking my writing seriously since 2006. I write poetry, short stories and articles.

I am a cancer survivor. I had Lumpectomy surgery 5 years ago and I had Mastectomy in January, 27, 2009.

I published my first poetry book in November 2008. It called "ENTER MY HEART", Poems For The Soul.

I started the book with a statement:

Poems are nutrition for the soul
Like
Flowers are nutrition for the bees

I am going to launch the book on Sunday, April, 5, 2009 between 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Cost of the Book is $10
It is a free admission, finger food and refreshments are served.
The book can be found at: www.lambtoncounty.com/najahshuqair.html

The Book Launch at the "Kinsmen Club of Sarnia"
656 Lakeshore Road
Sarnia, On.

I love helping others. I thought of a way how can I help bodily and mentally. I found that words do affect the mind. The mind is a machine that gives orders to the body.

If the mind is good, the body becomes good and fights against anything especially cancer.

Contact Person

Akhdar Press
P.O.BOX 3327
Sarnia, Ontario
N7T 8G6
Phone: 519-542-9920
E-mail: najah137@hotmail.com

Join the Federation of Poets and become a part of this great Organization that promotes poets and poetry in the dedication of a better world.

Join the Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk How to Get Started in Internet Marketing

2009-03-13T12:30:00.001-07:00

Do you Twitter? Social Media for poetry

2009-03-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

Do you Twitter? Social Marketing for Poets

Many of you may not have entered the world of social marketing, and many of you may be mastering it. So I'll just take a few minutes to give you a very easy tool you should be using to promote your poetry.

www.Twitter.com - this community has exploded and is rivaling Google and Facebook for popularity of use. In fact it has become such an important part of traffic generation and relationship building, that all the top topics at seminars have a twitter expert on board.

It is a fast way to update users with instant messages, or tell them what you're up to, events you are going to, exchange tips, tricks and ideas, and so much more.

You have 140 characters to get the message out fast, and often, and it is a great tool.

Go here:
Tracy Repchuk's Twitter Page

start your own free account, and select the follow me option.
You will get a feel for what it is, and what you can use it for to promote yourself, and poetry.

If you're thinking how do I share my poetry in 140 characters, simply create a blog post on your blog or where ever and post your poem and create a link you put in your twitter message to drive readers there.

Use this tool to create a small link:
www.twitpwr.com

Here is a sample twitter post:
Read my latest poem "I am a wild child" at http://twitpwr.com/blogpost and see me Saturday Burlington, ON http://twitpwr.com/poetryevent )

Plus you can also have your twitter post autofeed to your Facebook page if you have one. If you don't that's next.

Check out my page: Tracy Repchuk's Facebook Page

AAnd yes, both of these are good for poets.

I know if Nikhil isn't already using this, he will go wild with it.

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Join today and get educated on how to promote your poetry

Canadian Federation of Poets

Get promoted as a poet from the Canadian Federation of Poets

2008-10-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

Tracy Repchuk
*Presenting in Las Vegas at JV Alert Live Oct. 17-19th

* Presenting in Dallas, TX at the World Internet Summit Dallas
the world's biggest and most powerful
internet event

* Presenting in Toronto, Canada at the Toronto
Convention Centre at the World Internet Summit Toronto the world's biggest internet event Nov. 6th-9th

* Hosting the Artists for a Better World Poetry
Party Oct. 11th at 4:00pm, Hollywood, CA

* Presented on Sept. 30th for the Lorman Education Institute on
the Power of Permission-based email

Nikhil Parekh
* Won his 4th and 5th Limca World Records!
That is totally amazing. Be sure to check out all of
Nikhil's accolades and get the full details at: prweb.com
or Yahoo News

about his recent limca world record for the Canadian Federation of Poets CFP and the other one for McGill Dictionary

about his recent limca world record for the Canadian Federation of Poets CFP and the other one for McGill Dictionary
Bonita Summers -
* Anti-war poems were published in The Gazette by Stephen Gill
* Appeared in Within Kingston Magazine
* Published in Writers Manual
Oneal Walters-
* Holding a WOMEN in 2009 Poetry Contest
www.myspace.com/onealwalters

Debbie Ouellet-
* Debbie poem, 'Word Pole Lease Blues' was published in The Egregious in May 2008 and will be published in the next issue of its parent magazine The Feathertale Review.
* Her poem 'I Pass the Loom' was published in Inscribed in June 2008.
* Her poem 'Finale' won the Poetry Canada Rhyming Poetry contest and was published along with her poem 'Word Storms' in the most recent issue of Poetry Canada. * Debbie was one of the readers representing the Canadian Federation of Poets at the Stellar Literary Festival on September 27th in Oshawa.

Gary Pierluigi-
* Not only has he been published in journals such as Grain, On Spec, Queen's Quarterly and CV2, I now have a full length poetry collection coming out in February 2009 published by Serengeti Press entitled "Over the Edge". I encourage all members to check out the book when it comes online in February.

The Poetry of Food Anthology Announcement

2008-09-30T20:14:00.000-07:00

THE POETRY OF FOOD

Editor: Laura Murray
www.thepoetryoffood.com

Food - Glorious Food - Hot Sausage and Mustard.

There isn't a person on earth that doesn't consume food, think about food, look for food, avoid food, crave food, and generally be preoccupied with it.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, appetizers, junk food, health food, organic, vegetables, fruit, ice cream, literally this topic should have every poet submitting.

You have special foods for religious holidays, traditional foods for Christmas, thanksgiving, food memories of grandma's cooking, the smells that loft from the kitchen, and it is endless to the food derivations that we can recall.

Cotton candy at the fair, popcorn at the movies, a celebratory supper over your promotion, food is connected to so many things that we do.

What about DIE with a T - and the games we play with food to lose the weight. Small portions, foods that call you silently in the night, or invite you to take just one bite.

How about those summer Bar-B-Que's, grilled steak, smoked salmon, smores over an open camp fire, snapped peas fresh off the vine, strawberry picking, apple pie, is any of this getting your food and poetry juices flowing?

Lets go everyone, and get your poems in about the joys or horrors of FOOD.

Laura is waiting to read your poetry, and she is excited to get to know everyone better through FOOD.

Start your next masterpiece.

Go to: www.thepoetryoffood.com

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Become a CFP poetry member

Participate in the Poetry of Marriage Anthology Call

2008-09-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

FEATURED Canadian Federation of Poets POETRY CALL

Have you ever heard of a thing called marriage?

The Poetry of Marriage anthology is about union - of people, a blending of elements, a formal or informal agreement. It is what you have either experienced yourself, viewed directly, or have an opinion on. food. A topic that carries with it a memory for everyone.

Remember growing up watching your parents?

Or were they divorced?

How did you feel?

What can you express, share or help someone else with?

Did you ever marry? Divorce? There has to be something cathartic either for yourself, or others.

Have you been married 20 years? 30? 40? Share a special anniversary poem, write one, let others know the path to longevity.

Marriage binds us, creates hope, life, love, family, and it’s an important part of the preservation of mankind.

Whatever it is - share your experiences.

The Poetry of Marriage knows you have a poem to share - so send your submissions before it closes to:

Tony Tremblett - tonyt@federationofpoets.com

Get More Details at The Poetry of Marriage Call

The Government Broke it, I don't Trust them to FIX IT!

2008-09-26T10:29:00.001-07:00

Jim Babka will be speaking in Connecticut this weekend. Details below the signature.
Quote of the Day:
"The government broke it. I don't trust them to fix it."

-- Senator Jim DeMint, Republican, South Carolina

We've heard the Treasury Secretary and the Federal Reserve Chairman make their case for a $700 billion bailout of the financial markets. We're not persuaded. Quite the contrary. We reject their predictions of dire consequences if their plan doesn't pass. We're so convinced of this that we're willing to stake our continued existence on it.

If the economy goes into a deep slump because they didn't pass their bailout plan then charitable contributions will be among the first things cut from family budgets. If we're wrong then we'll be among the many institutions to fail. But we don't believe we're wrong. And we don't believe we'll fail.

In 2003 dire warnings about "weapons of mass destruction" were used to justify an unnecessary war in Iraq. We bucked the tide of public hysteria and dared to claim that there were NO "weapons of mass destruction" in Iraq.
We were right, and popular opinion, driven by political fear mongering, was wrong. Now we're being told that our economy is threatened by "financial weapons of mass destruction," and we'll once again buck the hysterical trend by predicting that . . .

There are no "financial weapons of mass destruction" threatening our economy -- except for the $700 billion bailout plan.

We don't believe that mortgage defaults on a mere 3 million homes have the power to halt the mighty American economic engine. It's really that simple.
Many wild claims are being made. Yesterday, on CNBC, Jim Cramer predicted a Great Depression II if the bailout plan isn't passed. Cramer is even willing to let the Democrats cap CEO pay and take ownership positions in troubled firms (socialism), if that's what it takes to pass the bailout plan. Cramer, despite his great intelligence and personal charm, is madly, hysterically, wrong.

In the Great Depression 40% of homes went into foreclosure.

Today the foreclosure rate is only 6%, and the trend is toward fewer foreclosures rather than more.

We're far closer to the end of this problem than we are to the beginning.
Of course, the fear mongers will claim that we had a 40% foreclosure rate in the Great Depression precisely because the government didn't intervene soon enough, and that current foreclosure rates will spiral out of control if the bailout bill isn't passed. This reading of history gets the true story of the Great Depression exactly backwards . . .

The myth is that President Hoover did nothing after the stock market burst in 1929. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, Hoover actually began the kinds of interventions that are commonly associated with FDR. Roosevelt was merely copying, and dramatically expanding on what Hoover had already done, not setting a new course. And look at what the results were . . . a Great Depression that lasted for 12 long years!

Hoover and Roosevelt both tried to stop market prices from falling, which is exactly what the current proposal aims to do. But the result in the late 20s and early 30s was that the market never cleared, and so the Depression went on and on and on.
We could have the same thing again today if we allow the government to once again intervene in natural market processes.

The fact is that the politicians, the bureaucrats, and various hysteria mongers, are misleading us. They tell us that the market is frozen, but the fact is that commercial loans are at an all-time high, and even real estate loans ARE HIGHER THAN THEY WERE LAST YEAR! The fact is that . . .

The current "crisis" is mainly centered among the highly leveraged investment banks on Wall Street, but even there the market is far from frozen. Merrill Lynch was able to sell its bad assets and was then bought by Bank of America (which had earlier bought CountryWide).

Does this look like a frozen market to you? It doesn't to us.
And would it really matter if the markets were "frozen?" Inactive markets simply mean that buyers and sellers of assets have a disagreement about what those assets are worth. We must not allow the politicians and the bureaucrats to substitute their judgement for the judgements of buyers and sellers who are, after all, SPENDING THEIR OWN MONEY, whereas the politicians and bureaucrats are asking to spend YOUR MONEY!

We've taken the time, and shown the courtesy, of hearing our "leaders" speak, and having done so, WE REJECT THEIR CLAIMS! THEIR MUST BE NO BAILOUT, OF ANY KIND!
Please be clear about what we're NOT saying. We're NOT saying that things are rosy, or even all that good. As we explained Monday, we're feeling the effects of a FED-generated bubble pop. We are very simply saying that a bailout is wrong-headed and unnecessary, and could even make things worse.

If you agree with us, please tell your elected representatives to OPPOSE ALL BAILOUTS! You can use our generic campaign for cutting federal spending to send your message. Use your personal comments to reject the bailout and to make any of the points we've made in this message, or additional arguments of your own. You can send your message using our Educate the Powerful System.

But don't stop there. Please take the following additional steps . . .
* Call your Representative and your two Senators after you've sent your message
* Pass this Dispatch to others -- SOUND THE ALARM AND SPREAD THE WORD
* Register for a Digg account, and then Digg this message on our blog.

Finally, we've staked our existence on our principals and our best judgement. We expect to thrive, not die. But we are struggling in this economy too. Many DC Downsizers have had to cut their pledges because of the current downturn. Some have lost their jobs. We really need those of you who are still doing well to come to our aid. We especially need new monthly pledges to replace $400 a month we've lost so far this Summer. You can make a contribution here.

Thank you for being a part of the growing Downsize DC army!

Jim Babka & Perry Willis
President & Communications Director
DownsizeDC.org, Inc.

http://www.DownsizeDC.org is sponsored by DownsizeDC.org, Inc. -- a non-profit educational organization promoting the ideas of individual liberty, personal responsibility, free markets, and small government.
You are encouraged to forward this message to friends and business associates, and permission is hereby granted to reproduce any items herein as long as attribution is provided for articles and the subscription instructions above are included.

AIG Bailout a Crime Against the American People

2008-09-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was sent this the other day, and it reminded me that the power of our words make a difference, because if enough heed the warnings, perhaps we won't allow ourselves to be herded into the financial abyss that white collar crime, wallstreet and the current administration are attempting to pass without any thoughts as to the CEO irresponsibility and accountability manufactured in the first place. A crime has been committed, and we are about to not only skip the investigation part of it (for the sake of the people and their retirement funds), but award those that created the situation in the first place. So if you have a last breath or the ability to write, do what you can to stop the legislation from passing, and let it be known that the pen is mightier than the sword - or incompetent government in this case.

While Millions of Americans struggle every day - this is where we want to put our hard earned tax dollars?

I encourage you to support anyone that fights crime, and gets in the way of injustice. If we don't stick together in times like this, we will be cowering alone in a Brave New World.

Dear Friends,

Whenever a Great Bipartisan Consensus is announced, and a compliant media assures everyone that the wondrous actions of our wise leaders are being taken for our own good, you can know with absolute certainty that disaster is about to strike.
The events of the past week are no exception.

The bailout package that is about to be rammed down Congress' throat is not just economically foolish. It is downright sinister. It makes a mockery of our Constitution, which our leaders should never again bother pretending is still in effect. It promises the American people a never-ending nightmare of ever-greater debt liabilities they will have to shoulder. Two weeks ago, financial analyst Jim Rogers said the bailout of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac made America more communist than China! "This is welfare for the rich," he said. "This is socialism for the rich. It's bailing out the financiers, the banks, the Wall Streeters."

That describes the current bailout package to a T. And we're being told it's unavoidable.

The claim that the market caused all this is so staggeringly foolish that only politicians and the media could pretend to believe it. But that has become the conventional wisdom, with the desired result that those responsible for the credit bubble and its predictable consequences - predictable, that is, to those who understand sound, Austrian economics - are being let off the hook. The Federal Reserve System is actually positioning itself as the savior, rather than the culprit, in this mess!

• The Treasury Secretary is authorized to purchase up to $700 billion in mortgage-related assets at any one time. That means $700 billion is only the very beginning of what will hit us.

• Financial institutions are "designated as financial agents of the Government." This is the New Deal to end all New Deals.

• Then there's this: "Decisions by the Secretary pursuant to the authority of this Act are non-reviewable and committed to agency discretion, and may not be reviewed by any court of law or any administrative agency." Translation: the Secretary can buy up whatever junk debt he wants to, burden the American people with it, and be subject to no one in the process.

There goes your country.

Even some so-called free-market economists are calling all this "sadly necessary." Sad, yes. Necessary? Don't make me laugh.

Our one-party system is complicit in yet another crime against the American people.

The two major party candidates for president themselves initially indicated their strong support for bailouts of this kind - another example of the big choice we're supposedly presented with this November: yes or yes. Now, with a backlash brewing, they're not quite sure what their views are. A sad display, really.

Although the present bailout package is almost certainly not the end of the political atrocities we'll witness in connection with the crisis, time is short. Congress may vote as soon as tomorrow. With a Rasmussen poll finding support for the bailout at an anemic seven percent, some members of Congress are afraid to vote for it. Call them! Let them hear from you! Tell them you will never vote for anyone who supports this atrocity.

The issue boils down to this: do we care about freedom?

Do we care about responsibility and accountability?

Do we care that our government and media have been bought and paid for?

Do we care that average Americans are about to be looted in order to subsidize the fattest of cats on Wall Street and in government?

Do we care?

When the chips are down, will we stand up and fight, even if it means standing up against every stripe of fashionable opinion in politics and the media?

Times like these have a way of telling us what kind of a people we are, and what kind of country we shall be.

In liberty,
Ron Paul

PS - Please call your senators and reps and tell them you won't vote for anyone who approves this without it being given the scrutiny of sound economic planning. They DO take a note of your call and analyze the stats. They will answer the phone and ask your name and address, sometimes just your zip code. If possible try to talk to their staff rather than leave a message.
And please recommend that your friends and contacts do the same.

If you live in California:
Barbara Boxer - DC 202-224-3553 SF 415 403 0100
Diane Feinstein - 202-224-3841 - 415/393-0707

Find your representative here.
http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW.shtml

28 Recommended Publishing Agents

2008-09-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

Great article you should find helpful
Have a great day.
Tracy Repchuk

28 Agents Who Want Your Work
August 25, 2008
by Chuck Sambuchino

As compiled by Writer’s Digest who has assembled a list of literary agents who are building their client rosters and are open to working with new writers. Our agent guide features a variety of pros—some brand new and others tried and true—representing a variety of categories and genres. This year, instead of listing entire agencies, we’ve listed individual agents. When you’re looking at information for an entire agency, it’s not always easy to tell which reps are truly seeking new writers and which ones don’t have time to brave the slush pile. This method allows you to target specific professionals who have confirmed to WD that they’re open to queries from new writers.

What do agents do?

Literary agents act as gatekeepers; they take the best new material and submit it to publishing houses for consideration. Because editors at these houses—especially the larger ones—are so busy, they lack the time to properly review book submissions. That’s where agents come in. They sift through a lot of bad writing and find the fledgling authors, and in exchange for representing their projects, an agent takes 15 percent of all money earned, should a sale go through.

Speaking of money, know that legitimate agents shouldn’t charge fees to evaluate your work or sign you as a client (and none listed here do). Some of the agents are members of the Association of Authors’ Representatives (AAR), meaning they adhere to a canon of ethics when dealing with clients.

Beware of agents who ask for evaluation fees, submission fees, editing costs or anything else along those lines. An agent makes money when you make money. The only time you should ever pay one early is to help offset office costs incurred while trying to sell your project, such as copying, mailings, postage, etc. An agent’s role is to find excellent work in the slush pile and sell it.

In today’s literary marketplace, you’ll likely need an agent to sell your work—especially if you’re selling fiction. A writer can sometimes sell nonfiction without an agent, and perhaps even niche fiction, but more than likely, you’ll require a rep.

Do your homework and thoroughly revise your manuscript. Then, peruse the WD list and find your agent match.

NOTE: Before sending out your work to agents on this list—or any agent for that matter—be sure to read:
10 Submission Tips for Querying an Agent

THE AGENT LIST

Joy Harris
Joy Harris Literary Agency, 156 Fifth Ave., Suite 617, New York NY 10010. Phone: (212)924-6269. Fax: (212)924-6609. Contact: Joy Harris. Seeking new and established writers. Member of AAR. Stats: Represents more than 100 clients. 50% nonfiction books; 50% novels. Fiction areas of interest: ethnic, experimental, family saga, feminist, gay/lesbian, glitz, hi-lo, historical, humor/satire, literary, mainstream/contemporary, multicultural, multimedia, mystery/suspense, regional, short story collections, spiritual, translation, young adult, women’s. How to Contact: Query with sample chapter, outline/proposal, SASE. No e-mail or fax queries. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 2 months to queries. Returns materials only with SASE. Does not want to receive: screenplays. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Charges clients for some office expenses.

Catt LeBaigue
Heacock Literary Agency, Inc., 1020 Hollywood Way, No. 439, Burbank, CA 91505. Member of AAR. E-mail: catt@heacockliteraryagency.com. heacockliteraryagency.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Ms. LeBaigue spent 18 years with Sony Pictures and Warner Bros. Member of AAR, SCBWI. Actively seeking: juvenile fiction, adult nonfiction including arts, crafts, anthropology, astronomy, nature studies, ecology, body/mind/spirit, humanities, self-help. How to contact: E-mail queries only. No unsolicited manuscripts. No e-mail attachments. Offers written contract. Tips: “Take time to write an informative e-query letter expressing your book idea, the market for it, your qualifications to write the book, the ‘hook’ that would make a potential reader buy the book.”

Sorche Fairbank
Fairbank Literary Representation, 199 Mount Auburn St., Suite 1, Cambridge MA 02138-4809. Phone: (617)576-0030. Fax: (617)576-0030. E-mail: queries@fairbankliterary.com. fairbankliterary.com. Stats: Represents 40 clients. 20% of clients are new/unpublished writers; handles 60% nonfiction books, 22% novels, 3% short story collections, 15% illustrated. Specializes in: “I tend to gravitate toward literary fiction and narrative nonfiction, with a strong interest in women’s issues and women’s voices, international voices, class and race issues, and projects that simply teach me something new about the greater world and society around us.” Nonfiction areas of interest: agriculture/horticulture, art/architecture/design, biography/autobiography, cooking/foods/nutrition , crafts/hobbies, current affairs
ethnic/cultural interests, gay/lesbian issues, government/politics/law, how-to, interior design/decorating, memoirs, nature/environment, photography, popular culture, science/technology, sociology, sports, true crime/investigative, women’s issues/studies. Fiction areas of interest: action/adventure, feminist, gay/lesbian, literary, mainstream/contemporary, mystery/suspense, thriller, women’s, Southern voices. How to Contact: Query with SASE, and submit author bio. Accepts e-mail queries. No fax queries. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 6 weeks to queries; 10 weeks to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Does not want to receive: romance, poetry, science fiction, young adult or children’s works. Recent Sales: Tale of Two Subs, by Jonathan J. McCullough (Grand Central); 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School, by Matthew Frederick (MIT Press); Invisible Sisters, by Jessica Handler (Public Affairs); Bent Objects, by Terry Border (Running Press); To Full Term: A Mother’s Triumph Over Miscarriage, by Darci Hamilton-Klein (Berkley/Penguin); Spirit of Summer: At Home in the Thousand Islands, by Kathleen Quigley (Rizzoli); The Uncommon Quilter, by Jeanne Williamson (Potter Craft/Crown); Solar Revolution, by Travis Bradford (The MIT Press). Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract. Tips: “Have a reason for contacting me about your project other than I was the next name listed on some Web site. Please do not use form query software! Have the writing and/or proposal at the very, very best it can be before starting the querying process. Don’t assume that if someone likes it enough they’ll ‘fix’ it. The biggest mistake new writers make is starting the querying process before they—and the work—are ready. Take your time and do it right.”

Jenni Ferrari-Adler
Brickhouse Lit, 80 Fifth Ave., Suite 1101, New York, NY 10011. Phone: (212) 675-5556. E-mail: jenni@brickhouselit.com. Brickhouselit.com. Prior to her current position, Ms. Ferrari-Adler was with Sobel Weber Associates. Specializes in: literary fiction, narrative nonfiction and commercial fiction. Other nonfiction areas of interest include history, memoir, women’s, cookbooks and cultural studies. How to contact: Query by e-mail, or query by snail mail with a SASE. Terms: Agent receives 15% on domestic sales.

Winifred Golden
Castiglia Literary Agency, 1155 Camino Del Mar, Suite 510, Del Mar CA 92014. Phone: (858)755-8761. Fax: (858)755-7063. http://home.earthlink.net/~mwgconference/id22.html. Actively seeking: Literary fiction, ethnic fiction, suspense, thrillers, commercial fiction and science fiction. She will consider nonfiction if the author has expertise and high credentials. Her nonfiction subjects of interest are broad, but she is heavily interested in narrative nonfiction and health/medicine. How to Contact: Send a snail mail query with SASE. Include no more than five pages. Send no unsolicited manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 25% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Deborah Ritchken
Castiglia Literary Agency, 1155 Camino Del Mar, Suite 510, Del Mar CA 92014. Phone: (858)755-8761. Fax: (858)755-7063. http://home.earthlink.net/~mwgconference/id22.html. Actively seeking: cookbooks, lifestyle books and literary fiction. How to Contact: Send a snail mail query with SASE. Include no more than five pages. Send no unsolicited manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 25% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Sally van Haitsma
Castiglia Literary Agency, 1155 Camino Del Mar, Suite 510, Del Mar CA 92014. Phone: (858)755-8761. Fax: (858)755-7063.
http://home.earthlink.net/~mwgconference/id22.html. Actively seeking: all kinds of nonfiction by authors with a platform and credentials, as well as literary, commercial, women’s and ethnic fiction. How to Contact: Send a snail mail query with SASE. Include no more than five pages. Send no unsolicited manuscripts or proposals. Returns materials only with SASE. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 25% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Nancy Love
Nancy Love Literary Agency, 250 E. 65th St., New York NY 10065-6614. Phone: (212)980-3499. Fax: (212)308-6405. E-mail: nloveag@aol.com. This agency is interested solely in nonfiction at this time. Member of AAR. Stats: represents 60-80 clients. 25% of clients are new/unpublished writers. Specializes in: adult nonfiction. Nonfiction areas of interest: biography/autobiography, child guidance/parenting, cooking/foods/nutrition, current affairs, ethnic/cultural interests, government/politics/law, health/medicine, history, how-to, nature/environment, popular culture, psychology, religious/inspirational, science/technology, self-help/personal improvement, sociology, spirituality, travel (armchair only, no how-to), true crime/investigative, women’s issues/studies. How to Contact: Query with SASE. No fax queries. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 3 weeks to queries; 6 weeks to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Actively seeking: narrative nonfiction. Recent Sales: The Monster in the Corner Office, by Patricia King (Adams); Building Better Brains, by Judy Willis (Sourcebooks); The New Native American Cuisine, by Marian Betancourt (Globe Pequot); Addiction Proof Your Child, by Stanton Peele (Random House); Murder in the Silver City, by Annamaria Alfieri (St. Martin’s); Germ Proof Your Kids, by Harley Rotbart (ASM Press). Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract. Tips: “Nonfiction authors and/or collaborators must be an authority in their subject area and have a platform. Send an SASE if you want a response.”

Ellen Pepus
Ellen Pepus Literary Agency, 4200 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, #106-233, Washington DC 20016. Phone: (301)896-0185. Fax: (301)896-0185. E-mail: ellen@epliterary.com. epliterary.com. New agency actively seeking clients—especially nonfiction. Prior to her current position, Ms. Pepus was employed at Graybill & English Literary Agency. She worked in foreign rights as well. Specializes in: Narrative nonfiction. Nonfiction areas of interest: animals, anthropology/archaeology, art/architecture/design, biography/autobiography, child guidance/parenting, cooking/foods/nutrition, crafts/hobbies, current affairs, ethnic/cultural interests, gay/lesbian issues, government/politics/law, health/medicine, history, how-to, humor/satire, interior design/decorating, language/literature/criticism, memoir, military/war, money/finance, music/dance, nature/environment, new age/metaphysics, photography, popular culture, psychology, science/technology, self-help/personal improvement, sociology, translation, true crime/investigative, women’s issues/studies. Fiction areas of interest: action/adventure, detective/police/crime, erotica, ethnic, family saga, fantasy, feminist, gay/lesbian, historical, literary, mainstream/contemporary, mystery/suspense, psychic/supernatural, romance, thriller, women’s. How to Contact: Query with SASE. Submit first 5 pages. E-queries only. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 2 weeks to queries; 8 weeks to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Actively seeking: literary and commercial fiction, narrative nonfiction. Does not want to receive: children’s, young adult, poetry, short stories, screenplays, science fiction or horror. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Tips: This new agency is looking for clients, but its submission guidelines may be in flux; check the Web site for any news before submitting.

Rachelle Gardner
Wordserve Literary, 10152 S. Knoll Circle, Highlands Ranch CO 80130. Phone: (303)471-6675. E-mail: rachelle@wordserveliterary.com. wordserveliterary.com. Established: 2003. Specializes in: materials with a faith-based angle—primarily religious books in these categories: nonfiction, fiction, short story collections, novellas, as well as books that express a Christian worldview, whether the message is subtle or overt. Fiction areas of interest: women’s, mystery, suspense, police/crime, family saga, historical, legal, literary, mainstream, supernatural, romance. (In fiction, the Christian message should be subtly woven through, not in-your-face.) Kids’ fiction areas of interest: chapter books, middle grade, tweens, teens and YA. Nonfiction areas of interest: biblical, Christian living, church, devotionals, home life, marriage, parenting, family, apologetics, pastoral, current affairs, health, how-to, humor, memoirs, money, popular culture, psychology, science, self-help, true crime, women’s issues. Does not want to receive: picture books, poetry, short stories, screenplays, science fiction, fantasy; or anything that contradicts a Christian worldview. How to Contact: Query with SASE. For nonfiction, send a proposal package, outline, 2-3 sample chapters. Accepts e-mail queries, simultaneous submissions. Responds in 4 weeks to queries, 2 months to manuscripts. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales.

Caren Johnson
Caren Johnson Literary Agency, 132 East 43rd St., No. 216, New York NY 10017. Fax: (718)228-8785. E-mail: cjohnson@johnsonlitagency.com. carenjohnson.com. Prior to her current position, Ms. Johnson was with Firebrand Literary and the Peter Rubie Agency. Established: 2006. Represents 20 clients. Actively seeking: nonfiction, specifically in the areas of social sciences, economics, pop culture, humor, lifestyle and crafts. Nonfiction areas of interest: history, popular culture, science/technology. fiction areas of interest: detective/police/crime, erotica, ethnic, mainstream/contemporary, mystery/suspense, romance, young adult, women’s. How to Contact: Query with SASE. Query via e-mail only, with query and up to one chapter in the body of the e-mail. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 4-6 weeks to queries; 6-8 weeks to manuscripts. Does not return submissions. Does not want to receive picture books, plays or screenplays/scripts. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract. Writer’s Conferences: RWA National; Romantic Times Conference; Backspace; BookExpo America; Moonlight and Magnolias.

Jenoyne Adams
Bliss Literary, 1601 N. Sepulveda Blvd., #389, Manhattan Beach CA 90266. E-mail: query@blissliterary.com. blissliterary.com. Prior to her current position, Ms. Adams was with Levine Greenberg Literary Agency. Member of AAR. Nonfiction areas of interest: narrative nonfiction, ethnic/multicultural writing books and work that deals strongly with women’s issues and parenting. Fiction areas of interest: adult fiction, including literary novels and commercial fiction should make you laugh, and entertain you, but it should also make you think. Actively seeking: Middle grade, YA fiction and nonfiction, graphic novel. How to contact: E-queries preferred, with a detailed letter, contact information (including phone number) and one chapter and/or a synopsis in the body of the message (attachments will not be opened). You will receive a response to verify that your query was received. Do not send more unless requested. Responds in up to 8 weeks to queries. For nonfiction, include pertinent bio and platform information.

Jennie Dunham
Dunham Literary, 156 Fifth Ave., Suite 625, New York NY 10010-7002. Phone: (212)929-0994. dunhamlit.com. Prior to opening her agency, Ms. Dunham worked as a literary agent for Russell & Volkening. The Rhoda Weyr Agency is now a division of Dunham Literary, Inc. Member of AAR. Stats: Represents 50 clients. 15% of clients are new/unpublished writers. Currently handles 25% nonfiction books, 25% novels, 50% juvenile books. Actively seeking: Literary fiction and adult nonfiction as well as YA and middle grade work. Nonfiction areas of interest: anthropology/archaeology, biography/autobiography, ethnic/cultural interests, government/politics/law, health/medicine, history, language/literature/criticism, nature/environment, popular culture, psychology, science/technology, women’s issues/studies. How to Contact: Query with SASE. No e-mail or fax queries. Responds in 1 week to queries; 2 months to manuscripts. Recent Sales: America the Beautiful, by Robert Sabuda; Dahlia, by Barbara McClintock; Living Dead Girl, by Tod Goldberg; In My Mother’s House, by Margaret McMulla; Black Hawk Down, by Mark Bowden; Look Back All the Green Valley, by Fred Chappell; Under a Wing, by Reeve Lindbergh; I Am Madame X, by Gioia Diliberto.

Mary Sue Seymour
The Seymour Agency, 475 Miner St., Canton NY 13617. Phone: (315)386-1831
E-mail: marysue@slic.com. theseymouragency.com. Established: 1992. Member of AAR
RWA, Authors Guild. Signatory of WGA. Stats: Represents 50% nonfiction books, 50% fiction. Nonfiction areas of interest: business/economics, health/medicine, how-to, self-help/personal improvement, Christian books, cookbooks, any well-written nonfiction that includes a proposal in standard format and one sample chapter. Fiction areas of interest: religious/inspirational (Christian books), romance (any type). How to Contact: Query with SASE. Submit synopsis, first 50 pages for romance. Accepts e-mail queries. No fax queries. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 1 month to queries; 3 months to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Terms: Agent receives 12-15% commission on domestic sales. Writers’ Conferences: BookExpo America; Start Your Engines; Romantic Times Convention; ICE Escape Writers Conference; Spring Into Romance; Silicon Valley RWA Conference; Put Your Heart in a Book; RWA National.

Verna Dreisbach
Dreisbach Literary, P.O. Box 5379, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762. E-mail: verna@dreisbachliterary.com. Dreisbachliterary.com. Fiction areas of interest: Commercial and literary fiction, mystery, suspense, thriller, commercial women’s fiction, young adult, Native-American Indian. Verna’s 13 years of law enforcement experience as a former police officer gives her a genuine interest and expertise in the genres of mystery, true crime, and suspense. Her other interests include horses and natural horsemanship training. Nonfiction areas of interest: Travel writing, self-help, parenting, business,
pets, health, true crime, and any fresh, compelling idea that is matched with a strong platform. Specializes in: “I work directly with packaging authors and ideas for such series books as The Idiot’s Guides and The Everything Guides, and believe in helping authors break into the world of writing through these types of guide books. If you have an idea for a guide book, are an expert in a field that you believe should have a one, or would like to be a writer for one of these projects in conjunction with an expert, please send me your resume.” Does not want to receive: No sci-fi or horror. How to contact: E-queries preferred. No attachments. Do not send proposals, sample chapters or manuscripts unless specifically requested by an agent. They will not be opened or returned. Please indicate if you are simultaneously submitting to other agents.

Lindsay Davis
Writers House, 3368 Governor Drive, #224F, San Diego, CA 92122. Phone: (858)678-8638. Fax: (858)678-8530. E-mail: ldavis@writershouse.com. writershouse.com. Specializes in: “I represent children’s and young adult authors and artists exclusively.” Actively seeking: picture books, tween, YA, and middle grade. How to contact: Send a query letter of no more than two pages, which includes your credentials, an explanation of what makes your book unique and special, and a synopsis. Also, please include a SASE for a reply, which generally takes 6-8 weeks. Reviews manuscripts exclusively. Do not query Ms. Davis if you have already queried another agent at Writers House.

Adam Chromy
Artists and Artisans, 104 W. 29th St. 11th Floor, New York NY 10001. Fax: (212)931-8377. E-mail: adam@artistsandartisans.com. artistsandartisans.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Mr. Chromy was an entrepreneur in the technology field for nearly a decade. Specializes in: narrative nonfiction as long as the writing is exceptional and the authors have something truly unique to say. He is also interested in practical nonfiction from authors with strong platforms and/or a point of view that challenges the status quo. The agency represents a broad spectrum of categories, including most genres of adult fiction and nonfiction. How to contact: All fiction queries must include a brief author’s bio, and the setup or premise for the book. Snail mail queries are acceptable, though manuscripts will be not be returned. E-queries should start have the subject line “Query: (Your Title)”. Does not want to receive: screenplays, photo or children’s books. Responds in 2 weeks to queries; 4 weeks to manuscripts. Terms: Receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales.

Jamie Brenner
Artists and Artisans, 104 W. 29th St. 11th Floor, New York NY 10001. Fax: (212)931-8377. E-mail: jamie@artistsandartisans.com. artistsandartisans.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Ms. Brenner spent the past decade in book publishing. Her experience includes literary publicity (HarperCollins Publishers), book selling (BarnesandNoble.com), and manuscript analysis and book scouting for major film companies (Miramax Films, Davis Entertainment). Specializes in: thrillers, horror, women’s fiction, literary fiction, memoir, and books about pop culture/entertainment. She is happy to read first-time writers. The agency represents a broad spectrum of categories, including most genres of adult fiction and nonfiction. How to contact: All fiction queries must include a brief author’s bio, and the setup or premise for the book. Snail mail queries are acceptable, though manuscripts will be not be returned. E-queries should start have the subject line “Query: (Your Title)”. Does not want to receive: screenplays, photo or children’s books. Responds in 2 weeks to queries; 4 weeks to manuscripts. Terms: Receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales.

Barbara Doyen
Barbara Doyen Literary Agency, 1931 660th St., Newell IA 50568-7613. Phone: (712)272-3300. barbaradoyen.com. Prior to opening her agency, Ms. Doyen worked as a published author, teacher, guest speaker, and wrote and appeared in her own weekly TV show airing in seven states. She is also the co-author of The Everything Guide to Writing a Book Proposal (Adams 2005) and The Everything Guide to Getting Published (Adams 2006). Represents more than 100 clients. Specializes in: This agency specializes in nonfiction and occasionally handles mainstream fiction for adults. Nonfiction subjects of interest: agriculture/horticulture, Americana, animals, anthropology/archaeology, art/architecture/design, biography/autobiography, business/economics, child guidance/parenting, computers/electronic, cooking/foods/nutrition, crafts/hobbies, current affairs, education, ethnic/cultural interests, gardening, government/politics/law, health/medicine, history, how-to, interior design/decorating, language/literature/criticism, memoirs, military/war, money/finance, multicultural, music/dance, nature/environment, new age/metaphysics, philosophy, photography, popular culture, psychology, recreation, regional, religious/inspirational, science/technology, self-help/personal improvement, sex, sociology, software, spirituality, theater/film, travel, true crime/investigative, women’s issues/studies, young adult, creative nonfiction. Fiction areas of interest: family saga, historical, literary, mainstream/contemporary. How to Contact: Query with SASE. Snail mail queries preferred, but you can submit a query on the Web site as well. Include bio/background info. Send no unsolicited samples. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 3 weeks to mss. Returns materials only with SASE. Actively seeking business, health, how-to, self-help, and all kinds of adult nonfiction suitable for the major trade publishers. Does not want to receive: pornography, children’s books, or poetry. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Jeffery McGraw
August Agency. E-mail: submissions@augustagency.com. augustagency.com. Before becoming an agent, Mr. McGraw worked as an editor for HarperCollins and publicity manager for Abrams. Specializes in: politics/current affairs, entertainment, business, psychology, self-help, narrative nonfiction, contemporary women’s fiction, literary fiction. Actively seeking: “We actively pursue an array of fiction and nonfiction writers to represent, with an emphasis in media (seasoned journalists receive special favor here), popular culture/entertainment, political science, diet/fitness, health, cookbooks, psychology, business, memoir, highly creative nonfiction, accessible literary fiction, women’s fiction, and high-concept mysteries and thrillers. When it comes to nonfiction, we favor persuasive and prescriptive works with a full-bodied narrative command and an undeniable contemporary relevance. Our favorite novelists are as eclectic as our minds are broad, yet they all share one common denominator that might explain a peculiar predisposition for what we prefer to call ‘emotional fiction’—a brand of storytelling defined not so much by a novel’s category as by its extraordinary power to resonate universally on a deeply emotional level.” Does not want to receive: academic textbooks, children’s books, cozy mysteries, horror, poetry, science fiction/fantasy, short story collections, Western’s, screenplays, genre romance or previously self-published works. How to Contact: Submit book summary (1-2 paragraphs), chapter outline (nonfiction only), first 1,000 words or first chapter, total page/word count, brief paragraph on why you have chosen to write the book. Send via e-mail only (no attachments). Responds in 2-3 weeks to queries; 3 months to manuscripts. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Cricket Pechstein
August Agency. E-mail: submissions@augustagency.com. augustagency.com. Before opening The August Agency, Ms. Pechstein was a freelance writer, magazine editor and independent literary agent. Specializes in: mystery/crime fiction, chick lit, thrillers. Actively seeking: “We actively pursue an array of fiction and nonfiction writers to represent, with an emphasis in media (seasoned journalists receive special favor here), popular culture/entertainment, political science, diet/fitness, health, cookbooks, psychology, business, memoir, highly creative nonfiction, accessible literary fiction, women’s fiction, and high-concept mysteries and thrillers. When it comes to nonfiction, we favor persuasive and prescriptive works with a full-bodied narrative command and an undeniable contemporary relevance. Our favorite novelists are as eclectic as our minds are broad, yet they all share one common denominator that might explain a peculiar predisposition for what we prefer to call ‘emotional fiction’—a brand of storytelling defined not so much by a novel’s category as by its extraordinary power to resonate universally on a deeply emotional level.” Does not want to receive: academic textbooks, children’s books, cozy mysteries, horror, poetry, science fiction/fantasy, short story collections, Western’s, screenplays, genre romance or previously self-published works. How to Contact: Submit book summary (1-2 paragraphs), chapter outline (nonfiction only), first 1,000 words or first chapter, total page/word count, brief paragraph on why you have chosen to write the book. Send via e-mail only (no attachments). Responds in 2-3 weeks to queries; 3 months to manuscripts. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract

Evatopia, 400 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 214, Beverly Hills CA 90212. E-mail: submissions@evatopia.com. evatopia.com. Prior to becoming a literary and script manager, Ms. Walshaw was a writer and publicist for the entertainment industry. Stats: Represents 15 clients. 85% of clients are new/unpublished writers. “We specialize in promoting and developing the careers of first-time writers and screenwriters. All of our staff members have strong writing and entertainment backgrounds, making us sympathetic to the needs of our clients.” Actively seeking: middle grade, YA and some nonfiction (mostly biographies). Specializes in: Though Evatopia previously focused solely on movie scripts (numerous genres), it has recently expanded to represent juvenile literary as well. How to Contact: Submit via online submission form. Accepts e-mail queries. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 2 weeks to queries; 3 weeks to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 15% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Sharlene Martin
Martin Literary Management, 17328 Ventura Blvd., Suite 138, Encino (LA) CA 91316. Phone: (818)595-1130. Fax: (818)715-0418. E-mail: sharlene@martinliterarymanagement.com. MartinLiteraryManagement.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Ms. Martin worked in film/TV production and acquisitions. Member of AAR. Specializes in: nonfiction. Actively seeking: nonfiction that is highly commercial and that can be adapted to film. How to Contact: Query with SASE. Submit outline, two sample chapters (fiction). Prefers e-mail queries. Will request supporting materials if interested. No phone queries. Do not send materials unless requested. Submission guidelines further defined on Web site. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 1 week to queries; 3-4 weeks to manuscripts. Returns materials only with SASE. Asks for short-term exclusive reads on fiction and nonfiction mss. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 25% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract. Recent Sales: Prince of Darkness - Richard Perle: The Kingdom, The Power, and the End of Empire in America, by Alan Weisman (Union Square Press/Sterling); Truth At Last: The Real Story of James Earl Ray, by John Larry Ray with Lyndon Barsten (Lyons Press). Tips: “Have a strong platform for nonfiction. Please don’t call. I welcome e-mail. I’m very responsive when I’m interested in a query and work hard to get my clients materials in the best possible shape before submissions. Do your homework prior to submission and only submit your best efforts. Please review our Web site carefully to make sure we’re a good match for your work.”

Jon Sternfeld
Irene Goodman Literary Agency, 80 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1101, New York, NY 10011. E-mail: queries@irenegoodman.com. www.irenegoodman.com/about.php. Actively seeking: intelligent literary fiction, high-end modern fiction; nonfiction and narrative nonfiction dealing with social, cultural and historical issues; an occasional memoir and current affairs book. Prior to his current position: Jon comes to the agency from the film world, where he worked both the creative and development sides. He is actively seeking new clients. "I'd be happy if people just reached out to me," he says. How to contact: "Send a query letter and the first 10 pages, along with a detailed synopsis of the entire book, in the body of an e-mail." Responds in 1-2 months. If interested, this agent will request more pages. E-mail queries only. No snail mail or phone queries will be accepted, nor will any queries to Jon's personal e-mail account. "Because we are receiving more than 50 queries a day, the system is getting overloaded. If your e-mail bounces back, please do not call the office. Just try again in a day or two."

Ginny Weissman
Martin Literary Management, E-mail: Ginny@MartinLiteraryManagement.com. www.martinliterarymanagement.com. Actively seeking: writers with a developed platform and a book that fits the Mind/Body/Spirit genre, including health, spirituality, religion, diet, exercise, psychology, relationships, and metaphysics in non-fiction only. How to Contact: Query by e-mail only. Proposals by request only. No phone queries. Submission guidelines further defined on Web site. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 1 week to queries; 3-4 weeks to proposals Asks for short-term exclusive reads on nonfiction mss. Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 25% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Josh Getzler
Writers House, 21 W. 26th Street, New York NY 10010. Email: jgetzler@writershouse.com. www.writershouse.com Seeking new and unagented writers. Prior to becoming a junior agent, Mr. Getzler have had 15 years in the business (not all publishing). Currently handles: 75% fiction, 25% nonfiction. Nonfiction areas of interest: biography, business/investing/finance, music, religious, cookbooks, history, sports. Fiction areas of interest: general fiction, mystery, historical novels (esp. mysteries), thrillers, noir, children's. Does not want to receive: picture books. How to contact: E-mail only with query with five or so pages. Synopsis not necessary. Actively seeking: Foreign and historical thrillers. Recent sales: Devil's Trill by Gerald Elias (Minotaur, Fall 2009); Hummingbirds by Joshua Gaylord (Harper, Fall 2009).

Greg Daniel
Daniel Literary Group, 1701 Kingsbury Drive, Suite 100, Nashville TN 37215. Phone: (615)730-8207. E-mail: submissions@danielliterarygroup.com. danielliterarygroup.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Mr. Daniel spent 10 years in publishing - six at the executive level at Thomas Nelson Publishers. Specializes in: “We take pride in our ability to come alongside our authors and help strategize about where they want their writing to take them in both the near and long term. Forging close relationships with our authors, we help them with such critical factors as editorial refinement, branding, audience, and marketing.” Stats: Represents 45 clients. 30% of clients are new/unpublished writers. Currently handles: 85% nonfiction books, 15% novels. Nonfiction areas of interest: biography/autobiography, business/economics, child guidance/parenting, current affairs, health/medicine, history, how-to, humor/satire, memoirs, nature/environment, popular culture, religious/inspirational, self-help/personal improvement, sports, theater/film, women’s issues/studies. Fiction areas of interest: action/adventure, contemporary issues, detective/police/crime, family saga, historical, humor/satire, literary, mainstream/contemporary, mystery/suspense, religious/inspirational, thriller. The agency currently accepts all fiction topics, except for children’s, romance and sci-fi. How to Contact: Query with SASE. Submit: publishing history, author bio, brief synopsis of work, key selling points. E-queries only. Send no attachments. For fiction, send first 5 pages pasted in e-mail. Accepts e-mail queries. No fax queries. Responds in 1-6 weeks to queries. Returns materials only with SASE. Does not want to receive: screenplays, poetry or short stories. Recent Sales: Wild Things, by Stephen James and David Thomas (Tyndale); My Life as a Holy Roller, by Julie Lyons (WaterBrook Multnomah); 40 Days Living the Jesus Creed, by Scot McKnight (Paraclete); The Sacredness of Questioning Everything, by David Dark (Zondervan); The Preacher, by Darren Dillman (David C. Cook); A New Kind of Human, by Alex McManus (Zondervan).

Jackie Meyer
Whimsy Literary, 310 East 12th St., Suite 2C, New York NY 10003. Fax: (212)674-1060. E-mail: whimsynyc@aol.com. Prior to becoming an agent, Ms. Meyer was with Warner Books for 19 years. Stats: 50% of clients are new/unpublished writers. Specializes in: “Whimsy looks for projects that are concept and platform driven. We seek books that educate, inspire and entertain.” Actively seeking: reference, biography, computers/technology, business/investing/finance, history, religious, mind/body/spirit, health, travel, lifestyle, cookbooks, self-help, diet, pop culture, humor, personality, gift, illustrated. How to Contact: Send a query letter via e-mail only. Send a synopsis, sample chapters, bio, platform and proposal. No snail mail submissions. No fax queries. Responds in 5 days to queries; 30 days to manuscripts. Does not return submissions. Actively seeking: experts in their field with good platforms. Recent Sales
The Boy Who Cried Wolf, by Scott Deming (Wiley); You Can Never Be Too Rich, by Alan Haft (Wiley); God Made Easy, by Patrice Karst (Cider Mill Press); Gracefully, by Valerie Ramsey with Heather Hummel (McGraw-Hill). Terms: Agent receives 15% commission on domestic sales; 20% commission on foreign sales. Offers written contract.

Make a Bestseller with Tracy Repchuk

2008-09-17T14:20:00.001-07:00

Dear Poets and Writers

If you are writing a book, or thinking of writing a book, I have got some great news for you!

I want to tell you about a brand new association that addresses the specific needs of the aspiring author. In fact, I am a recognized expert for this association.

It is called - The International Association of Aspiring Authors, Where Dreams of Writing a Book Come True.

This is different. This is the first writer's club that caters to the first time author.

First time authors have different needs than experienced authors.
They understand that.

Their goal is to answer questions, offer motivation, and make the journey of writing a book as smooth as possible.

There are many incredible resources availalble, including a new forum where members can upload their work for other members to review.

The most exciting resource this site offers is, personal attention to your specific needs as an aspiring author.

They are there for you, to answer your questions, offer encouragement, and offer resources to help the aspiring author.

The list of benefits is endless.

I could go on and on, but you should check it out for yourself.

International Association of Authors

Writing a book can be a daunting task, unless you have the resources to make the journey easier.

JOIN TODAY!

So how much is the investment to join this amazing organization?

I'm glad you asked! For a limited time, you can get a trial membership for just $1!

You read that right.

Just $1 to join.

I know it's hard to believe, but $1 gets you access to the exclusive members only area, where you will find all the resources,
motivation, tips and tools you will need to become a published author.

Take Advantage of this Incredible Trial Offer

IT'S TIME TO TAKE ACTION!!!!!

I hope you are the kind of person who is ready to take action and stop procrastinating. That book has been in your head long enough...it's time
to do something about it.

Change your future by clicking the link below.

Become a Bestseller

See you there!

Tracy Repchuk

P.S. Don't forget to pick up your special report, Ten Secrets to Getting Published. To find out how to get your copy, just click the link below.

P.S.S. To see a complete list of the membership benefits, get more information on membership dues, and find out how to get your membership activated for just $1, just click the link below.

Join Tracy Repchuk in this group today!

Tracy Repchuk
Bestselling author of "31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles"
Available from Amazon.com
Over 80 positive testimonials, and thousands of ecstatic users.
Quantum Leap Thinking and down to earth internet marketing
mastery combine to turn your passion into profits.
Get your copy today - http://tinyurl.com/2jv3m4

The Poetry of Food Anthology Call

2008-08-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

FEATURED POETRY CALL

Do you eat food?

The Poetry of Food anthology is about food. A topic that carries with it a memory for everyone.

Remember your moms cooking? The smell of grandma's pies? How about cooking something over an open fire, marshmallows, smores, corn on the cob, hot dog on a stick, your first taste of escargot, quail, buffalo, or just reminiscing about your favourite comfort food.

Is it chocolate? Strawberries? Rocky Road Ice Cream? Jello? Pumpkin Pie?

Do you like crunchy food, soft, salty, sweet, messy, or just plain vegetables?

Did you get your tonsils out, and get ice cream and popsicles for days.

Whatever it is - share your experiences.

Recall a memorable thanksgiving supper.

How about your favourite breakfast items - crepes, yogourt, waffles with whip cream, french toast and bacon, smoked salmon stuffed omellette or poached egg on an english muffin.

The Poetry of Food knows you have a poem to share - so send your submissions before it closes to:

Laura Murray - lauram@federationofpoets.com

Get More Details at The Poetry of Food Call

Get published!

Tracy Repchuk
Marketing Makeover Maestro

Tracy Repchuk Interviews Priscila Uppal - Attend for Free

2008-08-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

EXCLUSIVE FEDERATION OF
POETS TELESEMINAR INVITE
WITH PRISCILA UPPAL

From Tracy Repchuk

Join me as I interview Griffin Poetry prize finalist Priscila Uppal for Poetry Canada magazine. As a Canadian Federation of Poets ezine subscriber you will have behind the scenes access to listen to the live interview process, and ask your own questions at the end.

We will be discussing her journey, inspirations, nomination process, publishing experiences, and how she took her poetry career to the next level. We will also get her insights on her nominated book Ontological Necessities.

For CFP members, you'll then get to see what the final interview looks like in print as it appears in Poetry Canada magazine as the end process.
Date: Wednesday September 10th, 2008
Time: 6:00pm EST
Phone Number: 1.605.475.8590
Access Code: 5700562

WRITE ALL OF THIS ON YOUR CALENDAR

Have a wonderfully poetic week

Tracy Repchuk
Marketing Makeover Maestro

Federation of Poets in Action

2008-08-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

Canadian Federation of Poets Activity and Updates

Tracy Repchuk -

*
Interviewed by best selling author promoter Warren Whitlock
as part of his author series

* Invited as a celebrity author for the
"International Association of Aspiring Authors"

* Participated as a featured poet at the Art Day
festivities

* Appearing Sept 12-14th in Manhatten Beach, CA at
the
Bridging to Heart Marketing Event

* Presenting for the Lorman Education Institute on
the Power of Permission-based email

Bonita Summers -
* Poem entitled "Irish Wake" was published in Irish American Post, 2008—v.8 #1, Winter Spring edition;
* Poem entitled "Summer Night on the Farm", published in the Ontario Poetry Society's Verse Afire v.4 #2 , 2008

Graham Ducker -
* Graham Ducker was invited to read one of his two submissions from his book Don’t Wake The Teacher at the Leacock Museum during the Lake Country Literary Lapses in Orillia, August 15/08.

Lucia Gorea -
* will be reading from her last book "Journey Through My Soul," and from her new collection of love poems at "The Word on the Street Book and Magazine Festival" in Vancouver on September 28th, 2008. www.thewordonthestreet.ca

Stella and Graham Ducker -
* Founders of the Stellar Literary Festival to be held in September invite you to join in the festivities by attending or send in your greetings if you are unable be there to stellacd@federationofpoets.com
and they may be read during the CFP Group readings lead by George Arnold, CFP National Coordinator
www.stellarliteraryfestival.com

Paul Hartal -
* Congratulations to Paul whose original artwork was selected to appear as the cover of The Poetry of Love anthology.

Top 20 Agent Poetry Scams You Need to Know

2008-08-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

POETRY AGENT WARNING

I love it when CFP members and poets are doing well, getting published, getting recognition and getting the attention you deserve.

However, as one of the features of being a member, we will also help to ensure that people that contact you are legitimate in the industry, and can deliver what they promise.

One of the members was approached to sign with an agent, checked with us, and they turned out not to be legitimate. In case there are others out there who have not contacted us for help - I wanted to provide you with a list of the top 20 agent scams on right now for your safety.

Top 20 Agent Scams You Need to Know

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Join and become a part of poetry, publishing and promotion
Join Federation of Poets

Federation of Poets member news

2008-08-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Canadian Federation of Poets MEMBER NEWS

If you are a CFP member with exciting news, let us know. Send an email with the news in it, and a subject line of CFP Member News.

Tracy Repchuk -
* Appearing live on stage August 15-17th at Focus 2008 Internet Marketing event in Washington, DC. Come see me - they have amazing museums and tons of sight seeing. Focus Marketing 2008.
* Appeared in the Sept.-Dec TOPS Verse Afire

Nikhil Parekh -
* Applying for his 4th Limca World Record
Patricia A. McGoldrick -
* Poem entitled "Irish Wake" was published in Irish American Post, 2008—v.8 #1, Winter Spring edition;
* Poem entitled "Summer Night on the Farm", published in the Ontario Poetry Society's Verse Afire v.4 #2 , 2008

David Fraser -
* Will be included in Rocksalt, the first anthology of contemporary BC poetry in 31 years featuring 108 contemporary British Columbia poets. http://www.mothertonguepublishing.com/#/rocksalt/4526923016
* Published in Ditch 2008, Voices of Israel Print Anthology 2008, Ygdrasil Feb. 2008, A Little Poetry Feb. 2008, Manniquin Envy April 2008, Voices of Israel Online June 08, and will be published in Autumn Leaf Nov. 2008 and Long Short Story Sept. 2008.
* In March, 2008 David attended a retreat with poets, Patrick Lane and Wendy Morton and will be included in a future chapbook being launched at the Black Stilt Cafe, Victoria, BC in the fall.

George Arnold -
* Just launched his second book Meanderings. Contact George for your copy. George@federationofpoets.com

Stella and Graham Ducker -
* Founders of the Stellar Literary Festival to be held in September invite you to join in the festivities by attending or send in your greetings if you are unable be there to stellacd@federationofpoets.com
and they may be read during the CFP Group readings lead by George Arnold, CFP National Coordinator
www.stellarliteraryfestival.com
* Graham and Stella Ducker, are attending The Second Annual Al Purdy Fest 2008. The are honored to be a part of the reading program on Sunday.
* Graham and Stella Ducker will be attending the 2nd Annual Canada Cuba Literary Alliance Art & Lit Fest August 23. Stella as the Durham Region Chair will have CFP info to hand out.
Trish Shields -
* Published in Moonset Newspaper, through Natal*Light Press, poetry, Spring Journal newspaper
* Modern English Tanka, poetry, Spring Journal, Volume 2, Number 3, ISSN: 1930-8132
* Modern English Tanka, poetry, Summer Journal, Vol 2, Number 4, ISSN: 1932-9083
* Blue Collar Lesbian Erotica, Yellow Rose Books, short story, ISBN: 978-1-935053-01-9
* Received a Sakura Award for haiku submitted to the Vancouver Cherry Blossom festival
Mel Sarnese -
* Feature poet at Clinton's Art Bar Series in Toronto on June 24th

Graham Ducker -
* Stella and Graham were invited to go to the International WEFLA - www.wefla.org - conference in Cuba - April 23 to 25 - where I discussed - from my book Don't Wake The Teacher! - how I used the environment to develop language in a culturally diverse classroom. At the same conference I presented copies of my poetry book, Observations Of Heart And Mind to the University of Holguin.
*also have a poem in C.C.L.A. The Ambassador, Vol. 006.

Cheryl Xavier
* News item appeared in Mississauga News:
http://www.mississauganews.com/article/16845
* Read poems at International Goan Convention in Mississauga on July 24th.
* Curated one hour Poet's Hour at the Masala! Mehndi! Masti! South Asian festival in Toronto's Exhibition Place on the 27th July.

Ruth E. Walker
* won 3rd place in this year's Banff/Bliss Carman Poetry Award, sponsored by by the literary journal, "Prairie Fire"
* has poetry coming in the next issue of "Chapman", Scotland's premier literary journal.
* On November 1 and 2, Ruth is one of three workshop facilitators through Writescape a 2-day all-inclusive writers' retreat on the quiet shores of Kempenfelt Bay, Innnisfil, Ontario. See www.writescape.ca for details.

Artists for a Better World Poetry Anthology

2008-07-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

Artists for a Better World

A Better World Poetry Call

Artists For A Better World International has announced its 2008 "Call for Poetry" to global poets for potential inclusion in the third AFABW poetry compilation book.

Poets may submit up to three (3) of their poems, for no cost, and poets whose works are selected for inclusion in the book will be given full credit as well as additional AFABW promotion. Poets
may submit their work via the AFABW website and will receive an upgraded AFABW "Premier" membership ($75.00 value) at no cost.

Get More Details at AFABW Poetry Call

As the editor I am looking forward to seeing your poetry and helping to make the world a better place through poetry.

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Worldwide Poetry Anthology Calls

2008-06-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

LARGEST ANTHOLOGY CALL IN CFP HISTORY

Launching a 10-book call, the Canadian Federation of Poets is undertaking an anthology call that will cover the production of 10 books. 8 Calls are still open.

It is a similar concept to the "Chicken Soup for the .... " but this is called:

The Poetry of (TM) ....

Marriage
Travel
Birth
Relationships
Love - CLOSED
Children
Food
Sports
Occupations
Seasons - CLOSED

This will be a world wide call.

So start to organize the poetry you have in those categories, and wait. The call will be put out once everything is in place. Tell your FRIENDS to subscribe to the new ezine database now!

This is how we will be making the announcements, along with a press release to 10,000 different types of medias.

The new subscription system is ready for new ezine subscribers. If you are a current ezine subscriber, have no worries, you will be ported over automatically.

If you aren't a CFP member, the time to join has never been better. With Federations around the world now, this call will help to make us one of the fastest growing poetry organizations in Canada.

Our last anthology was so successful, it sold out in 10 days. We still have library and fulfillment houses contacting us for more copies. If it had been sold on Amazon, it could have come close to being a Best Seller.

We're about to put poetry back on the map!

Tracy Repchuk
President of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Al Purdy Statue Unveiled

2008-05-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

At last the statue was unveiled honouring Al Purdy the poet, at Queen's Park, after a seven year struggle with bureaucracy.

Through the herculian effort of Scott Griffin (of the Griffin poetry awards) and Dennis Lee, did this event finally take place.

Check out the latest from the

Griffin Poetry Prize - Al Purdy Unveiled

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

A Different Approach To Marketing Your Poetry

2008-05-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

I was on a Teleseminar the other day with Peggy McColl and Randy Gilbert, and these guys are Amazon bestsellers with many of their books. They started with great ideas and a book, (just like we did), and they made it happen. Notice I use the word 'made' it happen. They wrote a book, and thought it was going to fly out the door, and when it didn't, said okay, what will make this happen, and put the steps in place to make their dreams a reality.

So anyone who is interested in trying something new, stick with me through this article, because I am about to start to change reality. I have a business background, and poetry is my passion, my mission, an important part of our culture, we need to adapt, and make use of the tools out there to help us succeed, and stop saying "Poetry doesn't sell."

Step one - Change the attitude, and it will change the environment.

That is a very simple, yet powerful thought. If we all stop saying and/or agreeing with the general population that states: poetry doesn't sell, nobody wants to listen to poetry, poetry is boring, poetry is only for intellectuals, poetry isn't mainstream, and the list goes on, ad infinituum, things will change. We have to face everyone head on, stop letting them suppress us, and shove us into the corners of coffee houses, and the back of bookstores, and change it!

Okay so that might be a tall order, but it is acheivable. Look at what has been changed throughout history. Blacks can't ride on the bus, women should stay at home, (I am using the slang of the times.) It took the voice and people of that time period - to change it. Lets not wait for that time period to come, lets make it! It didn't take a quiet voice from the back of the room, it took an all out movement.

The Mission of the Canadian Federation of Poets has been the same from the beginning - Creating One Voice - so that we can change reality together, and I am taking initiatives and trying new ideas (some may work, some may not), but change is better than another year of the same. In fact, things don't stay the same, they either go up, or down, and I have seen far too long the direction of poetry.

Do you know how far back it goes that poets have been made to be quiet. Centuries. Writers would have to put on plays secretly to get their work seen, and hide pages, and we are still carrying some of this energy, and stigma with us. We are going to break free from all of this, and get the job done.

For those of you who don't know my background - I am an Internet Marketer by trade, and poet by heart. Among other business ventures, this is what pays the bills, supports Poetry Canada magazine, and supports the Canadian Federation of Poets. But I want us to be able to support ourselves at what we really love to do - write poetry, read our poetry, listen to poetry, whatever that passion may be.

I haven't worked out the whole plan yet, it is in its infancy - and if you have ideas - email them to me and I will introduce each of them through the newsletter, and give you credit for them. Great ideas need to be shared, and this is the tool we will use to do that right now.

Are you with me so far? Good. Because I can't do this alone. It will take each and every subscriber to do something within their own environment, their own mindset and their own family and friends. And I think we will be amazed at how easy this will be when we do it together.

For starters, I am going to be purchasing master resell rights for some e-books so that you can get them for a bargain, that will help us to market, promote, and take advantage of the largest delivery method in the world, the Internet. I make millionaires in the business world with internet marketing, and we can do the same thing here.

So I am going to give you the first task which has two parts.

Think like a business person when marketing your book. Not like a poet, we use that to create the book, but now we have to switch our hats, and sell the book. You don't have to think like a salesperson, but think like a marketer - and look outside of your own box and come up with a different way to market your book. We need to get out of our own heads, and tell everyone what we have, what we do, and why they need it. We are helping them, and a book is a business.

Read something different to help you do this. I have an e-book that I can offer at a really good price about conquering AMAZON. Take a look at this, or find something else in the library, from your office, something that deals with the ability to give you a new skill, or a new way or idea to distribute and share the words you need to have heard.

And as an aside - if you have a book you want to get published, don't wait another year. If you believe in what you've written, get your book done, take it to a company such as LuLu Press.

You're going to need your book, because by the end of this year, you're going to also be a marketer.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles available at Amazon.com

How You Can Promote Your Books

2008-05-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

Ben Franklin has a great quote that goes "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results"

Sometimes poets fall into this category, in that they create a book, and expect it to magically sell.

If you have a book that hasn't been selling the way you would like, it may be time to take a look at the promotion you are doing for it. When surveyed, most poets responded the only promotion they did was to take it with them to readings, and even then, they didn't promote it (excluding putting it on a table with a price tag.)

When you promote at a passive level, you may just end up with passive sales.

Here are some low cost plans you can make to help improve the sale of your book.

If you are a CFP member, for only $27.50 you can have a 4 month appearance in Poetry Canada magazine in the Poets' Marketplace section. For less than $30, you can be in a magazine with your book! (Price is $55 for non-members) Poets' Marketplace Sample

If you are a CFP member, you can have an announcement in this newsletter, appear on the front index page of the CFP site (over 140,000 hits per month), appear at the top of the page in the CFPShop store, for a total of 5 weeks, for only $20! (A $65 value) That's $4 per week for the promotion of your book - not a big investment, but it could make a big difference. (cost is $30 for non-members) Book Promote Plan

Reserve a table and participate in book fairs. Even better, share it with a friend, and have some company for the day.

Plan a reading from your book at a local coffee shop. Include about 4 readers, offer a discount, and make it fun. If you are a CFP member, promote your event for FREE in the CFP calendar.

If you're a CFP member, tell us what wonderful things you have done. Did you have a book launch, attend an event, win a contest, get selected for an anthology... whatever your news, let us know, and we'll share it in this newsletter.
Whatever you do, do something to help get your work out there, and have your voice really be heard!

Here are some links for you:

Special on right now - Get 5 weeks for the price of 3Book Promotion

Advertise in Poetry Canada Marketplace

Invest in your future with the Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles

May Canadian Federation of Poets Newsletter

2008-05-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

Greetings Poetry Canada and Canadian Federation of Poets members

The Month of May - May I?

When I think of the month of May, besides May flowers, I think of the game Mother May I. So what if May became the month of May I. May I share my poetry with you? May I attend a reading? May I submit my poetry? May I promote my book? May I announce my news? The power behind a "May I" is you.

Take the initiative this month and get yourself and your poetry to the people. Think in the box, out of the box and pick at least three things to do that achieves that goal.

If you're a CFP member, send me your news. That's one done already. If applicable, it can appear in this newsletter.

Are you a CFP member and write articles? Send them in too. They can be considered for this newsletter as well. That is free publicity and promotion whether you are a poet, editor or publicist.

Check out the May News - Federation of Poets May Newsletter

Join the Canadian Federation of Poets
Federation of Poets
It's money well invested!

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

How to Create a Poetry CD for Free

2008-04-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Tracy Repchuk here, president and founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets and I'd like to encourage you to find new ways to get your poetry out to the public.

Here is one great way -

CREATE A POETRY CD FOR FREE

There is nothing more powerful than hearing what a poem sounds like from its creator. Only you know exactly what it is meant to sound like, how you pause and invoke emotion from intonations and flex in tone. In the early days, poets created a chap book to get their work out the door, but now, you can record your voice on your computer and create a CD in under an hour.

Even better, keep the audio in digital .mp3 format, and sell it on the web. Zero cost to you, zero production, and by integrating it to paypal payment processor, you can be selling your work while you sleep.
I sell audios of everything I say and do - and people pay for it. You are no different, and can do the same thing.

Profit from your poetry, without the production costs of books.

Look under your computer's accessory option, and there is a function called Sound Recorder. Record your poetry and sell it in a compilation. If you have my book 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles, all of the steps are detailed in there for you.

If you have a blog, and want to share your poetry orally for free, you can record using this free service, which provides you with the code for a 'play, pause and stop' button that you can put on your blog or website.

1. Visit www.audio-mail.com - Register - it will take you to your account.
2. Then you call: 1-604-609-0185 - Enter your ID from registration

Have fun and be sure to check out the Federation of Poets

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles

April Canadian Federation of Poets Newsletter

2008-04-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Poetry Month!
This is our month so be sure you are being as active with your poetry as you can be.

Spread the word that poetry is alive, and critical to the social fabric of society.

CFP VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

The Canadian Federation of Poets runs on volunteer power, and I am grateful for everyone that gives their time, support, and promotion efforts. Throughout this past year I would like to give recognition to some very special people that keep the wheels turning every day.

George Arnold - National Coordinator

George Arnold is the Oakville Federation Chair, Burlington Co-Chair, Oakville Arts Council representative, and has won the CFP Poet of the Year 2 years in a row. George is a vital member of the CFP, and the only awarded lifetime member.

George is responsible for the success and expansion of the CFP in Canada with respect to the operation and growth of Federations/Chapters throughout the country.

Betty Dobson - Calendar Coordinator and Editor of Poetry Canada magazine

Betty Dobson is an award-winning, published writer and the owner of InkSpotter Publishing. As a longtime volunteer, she donates her time and her talents to causes close to her heart, including adult literacy, AIDS awareness, and the prevention of violence against women.

Betty is responsible for updating the online calendar with CFP, member, and editor of Poetry Canada magazine.
Find out more at: http://inkspotter.com/

We are always looking for help, if you would like to join our volunteer team, go here and check out our list of positions.

Check out the April News - Federation of Poets April Newsletter

Join the Canadian Federation of Poets
Federation of Poets
It's money well spent!

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

March Canadian Federation of Poets Newsletter

2008-03-02T16:43:00.000-08:00

Welcome Supporters of Poetry Canada and the Canadian Federation of Poets

Greeting everyone I just wanted to remind you that the latest edition of Poetry Canada has gone out, and the high profile interview with Daphne Rose Kingma, six times on Oprah and over 1,000,000 copies sold of her books in this edition has already received massive feedback.

Hope for poets, and acknowledgement for members that you are in one of the most progressive poetry organizations whose profile is continuously rising.

I will be away most of March with my speaking engagements in Australia, but you will have your latest copy of Poetry Canada to keep you company, and ten anthologies to submit to. With over 1000 poets we should have hundreds of submissions for every edition. If you have dreamed of getting more publishing credits in one year than your entire life - this is what could happen.

With increased recognition of Poetry Canada our next interview will be just as impressive for the next edition. He has appeared on The Tonight Show six times, CBC, Comedy Now, Montreal Comedy Festival, Mike Bullard show, and is a poet with a brand new book out. Look for this exciting reveal in our next edition of Poetry Canada. This is a magazine subscription that Canadian Federation of Poets members currently get included in your membership.

Check out the March News - Federation of Poets March Newsletter

Join the Canadian Federation of Poets
Federation of Poets
It's money well spent!

Market Your Poetry and Promote Your Poems

2008-02-24T21:09:00.000-08:00

SQUIDOO MARKETING TOOL

For poets marketing their work, there are many options that they don't consider. As the president of the Canadian Federation of Poets, I have spent much time on educating them on alternative routes to maximize exposure. This one was particularly easy, so I wanted to mention it.

Squidoo, is that a funny name or what? Who would have thought this peculiar name would become an easy to create tool for marketing online.

Mastering Squidoo can make a huge difference in the promotion of your books or your endeavours.

Squidoo is like a baby blog, only you create what is called a lens - which really just means a one page site that targets a specific keyword, including your name.

1. Go to: www.Squidoo.com

As an example - to get a feel for the elements, here is a look at a Squidoo Lens I created. Tracy Repchuk on Internet Marketing

Squidoo
It is effective, easy to do, and really helps with your web traffic and rankings. Many new users are raving about rankings they are getting in Google, because of their Squidoo Lens.

So here is a bit about the background, now that you have seen what one looks like:

1. They are as easy to create as a Blog

2. They allow you to focus (hence the term lens) on a specific topic

3. You create a page by 'Adding Modules'. Add a title for the module, just like a blog post, and then type in the body. Modules are like sections.

4. Popular modules are Amazon, RSS (your blog), Pictures, Guestbook, YouTube, and a generic post area.

5. Like a blog, you can earn money with Adsense. In the case of Squidoo, they add it for you, but you split the income. But, they know how to do it probably better than you do.

6. Tighter more adhesive community. Has the feel of a YouTube.

Try it - it can't hurt, and you can't screw up anything if the lens doesn't work, plus they have a full SquidooU - University if you really want to go for it. Sites like this make the difference between selling books, and having a book.

Have fun, and try it. Promote your poems, your books, your organizations, or poetry in general - help to spread the word about one of the most powerful mediums.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - Join the Federation of Poets an organization dedicated to uniting poetry and organizations around the world in the global promtion of poets and poetry.

Canadian Federation of Poets February Newsletter

2008-02-03T15:18:00.000-08:00

The Canadian Federation of Poets is dedicated to uniting people and organizations around the world in the global promotion of poets and poetry by educating people on the importance of Poetry in their lives.

February Newsletter is ready for your viewing.

It is in HTML so can't be displayed here, so go to Canadian Federation of Poets Feb 2008 Newsletter

Enjoy the news.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

PS - There is a 10-book anthology call on right now! Free to submit.
Get published in 2008!

The 3 Rules for Being a Poet on the Stage

2008-02-02T15:01:00.000-08:00

Tracy Repchuk, host and poet at the Artists for a Better World Poetry event. Over 20 poets participated in this spectacular event, and anyone is welcome.

I have 3 rules for an event that I am giving, and they are:

1. When a poet is on the stage - they're perfect, and we're going to treat them that way

Find out the others right now.

Have a great day, and join the Canadian Federation of Poets.

Be a part of this world-wide organization of caring poets for a better world.

Tracy Repchuk

President and Founder of the www.FederationofPoets.com

How to Ensure your Book Cover is Ready

2008-02-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

AIDA - YOUR BOOK COVER

You have possibly heard all about this before, but just in case you haven't - I wanted to bring it to your attention.

The reason I do right now is three-fold:
1. When I took my first book through this process (31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles) - the cover page difference was amazing and effective.

2. In looking at many existing poetry books, trust me when I say - you didn't follow AIDA. If possible, review what you have and update it for 2008.

3. I am in the design of my new book cover, and this cycle gets tighter and more aggressive once you accept it, and you become a powerful critic that looks at your own cover with the eyes of your worst enemy - who STILL ends up buying it by time you are done.

ATTENTION - You have 4 seconds to impress them. The front cover must have a title that can be read across a bookstore. Be attractive and fit the theme.

INTEREST - Then the purchaser will quickly flip to the back. You have 7 seconds to sell them. This is NOT a place for your bio or what inspired you to write the book. Tell them the benefits they will get from reading it, include testimonials if you have them, and leave them needing that book. Appeal to their "What's in it for me" attitude.

DESIRE - Once they've done with your back cover, they will open up the book and look at the table of contents - and this had better be organized and compelling. A book is no place for 'untitled' or lame titles for your work. You have fractions of seconds for them to STOP and want to know what the poem from that title would look like. Because then - you've got...

ACTION - They need to know, and will now take the action required to walk out of the bookstore, or hit ORDER on Amazon. Last mention here, make this process very easy - stamps, mailing a cheque, they will forget and you won't sell a book after all of your effort. Get paypal on a blog if you have to - but make it easy to buy your book!

I have spent $12,000 this past year getting educated on book production and marketing from #1 International Bestselling authors, and 14-time #1 New York Times bestselling author Richard Paul Evans and Robert G. Allen, so I am passing a small but critical piece that I learned. Richard Paul Evans was the first person in history to make the New York Times #1 spot in both soft and hard-cover simultaneously, sold the most books in history as a self-published author, and got the largest advance in history for their first book (7-figure advance, yes-including JK Rowling.)

Examine the books on the bestseller list in your category, pull the book up from Amazon, look at the front, back, inside table of contents, and see how your book rates against it. Would it generate the way it is right now, enough INTEREST for someone to take ACTION and buy it?

My real improvements also came on the back cover, where it became less about 'me' and more about what the book would do for them.

Have your cover reviewed by friends, use your writing or critique group to give you feedback, and go to the bookstore and see what other people have in your genre, and then design something better.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets
Dedicated to uniting people and organizations from around the world in the global promotion of poetry and poets.

PS - Get free access to our newsletters and register to receive your free copy automatically.

Poetry Testimonials for Tracy Repchuk

2007-06-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

Testimonials are an amazing thing, and not only for the recipient, but if you have a website or blog you can get the added benefit of traffic back to your site, by providing one.

Here are a couple of members who took the time to provide their feedback.

Donna Thompson, CFP member - "Writers respond well to encouraging voices, your voice is a blessing -Thank You."

Richard Vallance - CFP member - "Tracy Repchuk, President of the Canadian Federation of Poets, has always struck me as a hard-working editor and publisher, whose devotion to the art of poetry and also of photography is second to none. Tracy makes a special effort to publish quality poetry, and this includes in Poetry Canada. I can only hope I will be able to return to Tracy something similar to the several signal honours she has bestowed on other poets, including myself."

Honoria Groves - CFP member - "Tracy, we are blessed to have you because any organization is only as great as its leader! You are such an inspiration to us all and make it possible for us to share our thoughts and feelings with others, which brings us great satisfaction. Thanks so much."

Nancy V. Bennett - CFP member - "It is nice to find a home for poetry, a moment to pause and linger. Canada has a vast amount of talented writers of verse. Here is where we gather to exchange ideals, offer comradeship and pave the way for new generations."

Testimonials are a great way to get traffic to your site, and improve your Google rankings with relevant back links. So feel free to send a testimonial to the Canadian Federation of Poets, and we'll be glad to help promote your site too!

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Join one of the fastest growing poetry organizations with 8 Federations around the world and over 100 live events each year. Benefit from the Canadian Federation of Poets

Choosing an Internet Service Provider

2007-05-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Choosing an Internet Service Provider ISP

Step 2 of setting up a website, is selecting an ISP or Internet Service Provider, which is the service that hosts your website. I thought this would be a good topic as so many poets are becoming internet savvy, and are ready to take the plunge into creating their own website. So before you get the "HTML book for Dummies", you first need to have a place to put your site.

If you purchase your website domain name through companies such as www.ipower.com, they also provide free hosting services for small sites. For only $9.95, you can even eliminate the banner. This is a great way to start.

You can also create a free blogger site. A BLOG is an online personal journal, where you can post your poetry, make announcements, or just let the world know what you're up to. It's interactive, and FREE. Go to www.blogger.com, open up an account, select a template, and voila, you have a website.

I have 6 blogs, and they are very easy.

Find out more details on what to look for in an Internet Service Provider

And who do I use? Here is one of the ISPs I use

Helping you to get the word out about your poetry.

Tracy Repchuk

President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Join one of the fastest growing poetry organizations with 8 Federations around the world and over 100 live events each year. Benefit from the Canadian Federation of Poets

How To Get a Website in 5 Minutes for Free

2007-04-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

Are you a poets without a website?

As the designer and creator of many web sites, I am often asked by poets "Should I have one?"

As someone who embraces new ways to sell products, my answer would be YES! If you have a book, or CD, or want an area to display all of your work for others to admire, then you should consider having a website.

There are 5 main steps to taking on technology.

1. Establish what your domain name will be

A domain name is the name of your site. For example it can be a cute name you come up with such as apoetsplace.com or your name or anything you want that represents what you do. Then once you come up with a few possibilities, you need to search through a domain name provider to see if the name is available. If it is, grab it.

There are many places to purchase a domain name, but I use www.ipowerweb.com they cost just $6.95 USD for the year, and you can have a free place to host it, plus they have utilities to help you create and market your site.

Find out more details on how to search and select a domain name.

Find out the next step "How to select an ISP" (Internet Service Provider) and how to get your domain name for free in the next post.

Poetry Survey Reveals the Future of Poetry

2007-03-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what other people are thinking about poetry.

The Canadian Federation of Poets conducted a survey, and here are the results.

This could help you with planning your next book launch, plan how you approach others with your poetry, and highlights how the Federation of Poets is doing with these issues.

Here are the complete results.
• Q1 - What do you think people like most about poetry?
85% - emotional, inspirational, creative expression of ideas
12.5% - rhymes and rhythm
2.5% - too technical

Once you identify what people like most about something, that is what you can give them. People like to feel something when they read a poem, be inspired, and share ideas, so if we want to get a wider audience, this is a good place to start.

• Q2 - What could a national organization do that would be most useful to a poet?
43% - Career help and guidance
18% - Publish poets
13% - Increase Perception
11% - News/Events
10% - Unite poets/sense of community
5% - Train poets

For the Canadian Federation of Poets, this was the most important question, and the results were surprising. So we will spend the next year coming up with innovative ideas and solutions, and opportunities to help you establish your career as a poet, and provide guidance and suggestions where applicable.
How is the CFP doing so far?

• Career help and guidance With over 50 events, and 15 appearances of CFP members in the news, this is the first step to establishing your career - and that is exposure. Plus we provide advise about free contests, we promote members in Poetry Canada magazine, we select and promote a Feature Poet every month on-line, we provide a free on-line community for anyone, forum and chat area so poets can help poets, and share ideas, our website has over 27,000 hits a month, plus we have interviewed some of the newest up and coming poets of 2004 to let you know how they did it! Poetry Canada magazine will make sure it has content to satisfy this need in every edition.

• Publish poets: We put out a call in 2004 for the First CFP members anthology, which will help you gain experience in the publishing and editing process, and provide a method to get you published so you can announce to the world that you have been selected for inclusion, and published in a high quality, perfect bound book of the finest poems from CFP members.

• Increase Perception: We have poets on tour with Chapters/Indigo, and at every opportunity the CFP gets out there and promotes poetry. Events, newsletters, ezines, contests, on-line bookstore, pay per click keywords, an anthology, all of these are a great start to increasing the perception of a poet and their unique purpose in the society. By continuing to appear in front of anyone who will listen, and by starting off the year appearing at the Mayor's Levee in the city of Milton, we are expanding the audience type. In addition the combined events with the Burlington Art Centre that have our poets create in conjunction with current main gallery exhibits, all of this will continue to increase our awareness. If we all continue to 'speak up', we'll all eventually be heard.

• News/Events: This past year on average the CFP and its members held over 50 events that you could participate in, gain valuable speaking experience from and increase your own exposure. We will be adding even more this year, so be sure to take advantage of this! Plus we had over 15 appearances of CFP members, and 34 event accouncements in community newspapers. CFP will help promote you!

• Unite poets/sense of community We had 50 get togethers last year, we have 5 on-line forums for all different kinds of poetry topics, an on-line calendar where members and organizations can post their events, a monthly ezine that keeps you informed, announcement of events in Poetry Canada magazine, a free subscription to Poetry Canada magazine, on-line biographies and links of members so you can really get to know them, and a place where youth under the age of 16 can join for free, and participate on every level of full membership!

• Training - did you know the CFP has a complete 52 week education program where you can learn tons of different styles of poetry, and participate in drills and exercises to increase your own knowledge and experiences. At the end CFP members will get a Poets Certificate, which will be a well earned certificate, qualifying you to create in any of the methods from the program. Experienced teachers and editors will be there to mark your work, provide advise, guidance, and make sure you get the most knowledge you can from the CFP.
Are you a CFP member? What are you waiting for! Find out ALL the benefits of joining the CFP!

• Q3 - What would you like to get from the world of poetry?
48%- Recognition/Appreciation
26%- A career as a poet
19%- Knowledge
7%- Friends and community

How is the CFP doing so far?
• Recognition and appreciation Poets want to be appreciated and acknowledged. Simple things such as the CFP answers every email, responds to your inquiries, and helps members get the information you are looking for. You want recognition, so each month we feature a member on the website, we feature a member in Poetry Canada magazine, and we hold many events which we feature attending poets. In addition, we provide member on-line bios, and website links, so you can send out the message you want to every visitor. As for next year, we are going to add some member awards for outstanding poetry, volunteer work, and various other poetry expanding activities. Look for these!

• A career as a poet At the CFP, we know many of you would like to be earning enough money to have poetry be a full-time income endeavour, or if it is is a secondary passion, to have it compensate enough for your time. After all, you are a writer, and writers get paid. This is why we create events, contests, and opportunities in which you can sell your books, CDs and from Poetry Canada, we even pay our poets for their work. Not only does this result in the magazine being extremely selective, it means that the selected poets are launched in a very nice way. In addition, we don't look at the names of submitters, which means first time poets get the same consideration as published. Here you are on a level playing field, where talent wins, not who you know.

• Knowledge We created the unique 52 week Poetry Certification program to provide you with knowledge about different types of poetry, plus we provide information on the website, in the ezine, on the forums, in the calendar, newsletters and in Poetry Canada magazine. We work to keep you well informed.

• Friends and community Although this ranked low, we feel it is an important part and feature of the Canadian Federation of Poets. Poetry can be a tough nut to crack, and with the help of friends trying to do the same thing, and a community that will help encourage and provide advise to each other, we can all get further ahead, and when we walk together, the journey will be a beautiful one.

• Q4 - Should the name be Canadian Federation of just Federation of Poets?
71% - Canadian Federation of Poets
29% - Federation of Poets

CFP Response: Because the CFP is a world-wide organization, we decided to take a poll on whether we should make the name more generic. It was a landslide win in favour of keeping the Canadian heritage and origins. Be proud of where it started you said, and that is very good advise for all of us! Be proud. So the name is officially and will be registered as The Canadian Federation of Poets, even though it is for everyone, it started in Canada!

• Q5 - What would a poet like to see in or from a poetry magazine?
39% - Tips and articles to help with career
32% - Good poetry
16% - Their own work, chance for first timers
9% - Aesthetics and promote multiculturalism
4% - Get paid
2% - More rhyming poetry
2% - Volunteer opportunities for job experience

How is Poetry Canada doing so far?

• Tips and articles to help with career Every edition will have information to help you get published, find publishers, and tips and articles on how to help you with your career.

• Good poetry - We select a maximum of 10 out of about 300 submissions. We appreciate everyone that sends us their work, encourage you to continue, and as the magazine grows, are certain so will submissions, always resulting in the best work being selected. With a high number of submissions we can't select everyone if we want to continue the high standards, however, sometimes we simply run out of room - so we keep the runner ups on file and include them for consideration next time also. When you have to shell out money like Poetry Canada does to each poet, we make sure our money is well spent.

• Their own work, chance for first timers Over 50% of the poets that have appeared in Poetry Canada magazine, tell us it was their first time. They were so excited, and we were glad to be a part of their break into the industry. When we consider the work, we don't look at the name, city, province, state or country. The best are selected from anywhere in the world.

• Aesthetics and promote multiculturalism - Part of the core mission of the magazine is to promote culture and diversity through art, photography, and poetry. This mission will ensure we get you a beautifully created magazine, that promotes poetry, art and photography from around the world. In addition, we have an exclusive section for poetry presented in multiple languages called "Small Planet". The more we realize we are all here for the same reason, regardless of race, religion, culture, creed or any other 'physical world differentiator', the more we will all see each other as the same.

• Get paid Despite the fact this is the first year, and the magazine is running at a complete loss, we made it clear that we would pay our poets, however nominal, out of principal alone. We are writers, and deserve to be paid. Just because we love to do it, that is the point. We should all be able to earn a living by doing what we love. So however small a role Poetry Canada magazine will play, we want to make sure we set a precedent that hopefully other magazines will follow.

• More rhyming poetry To ensure that a rhyming poem appeared in every issue, we reserved a 'contest' spot for this type of poetry. It's popularity, flow, and rhymic passages are wonderful to listen to, often underrated, and deserves to be a prominent form of poetry for any age.

• Volunteer opportunities for job experience We allow volunteers to participate at most levels of production, and many have offered your services, to which will be taking you up on when the need presents itself. We will be glad to provide an environment where you can gain experience, and provide formal references for your future endeavours in the world of writing, editing and publishing.

• Q6 - If you could change one thing about poetry, what would it be?
28.5% - Quality improvement
22.8% - Content/subject matter
14.2% - viable career option
11.5% - have it be a more popular medium
11.5% - People's perception of it
11.5% - disrespectful way poets are treated

How is the CFP doing so far?
• All of the above are difficult to measure, but we do know we are making a difference in the industry because we are getting very positive feedback from our poets, from Poetry Canada magazine subscribers and readers, and from the attendees at events. Next year we will post some of the feedback. For content and quality, we believe Poetry Canada is selecting top quality work, and as far as content is related, there many places and sites specific to content many of us are not interested in. At Poetry Canada and the CFP, we believe a positive message, improvement, quality of life and aestethic contribution are important qualities we wish to promote and publish. This does not exclude science fiction, short stories, or human drama. Content and quality are very subjective, so we will let our readers and poets decide on what they like, based on feedback and survey results.

• Q7 - How do you feel poetry is perceived by the general public?
38.8% - Boring waste of time
25% - Difficult to read, understand and do
19.5% - They like it
16.7% - For stuffed shirts and intellectuals

How is the CFP doing so far?
If someone doesn't understand something, that means as a poet, we have not communicated that very well. We have not connected with affinity, or got them interested enough in what poetry can do for them. So the responses to this question are up to all of us to correct. If you think of a person as a mirror, they should feel the way you do when you have successfully expressed your message. If they don't, take a good look at how you feel about poetry first.
The CFP will be putting great effort into this. Last year we had 5 visits to local schools to make sure that children and youth did not abandon poetry, and that they understood that music is a form of poetry, and when they are having problems it is a great way to express themselves, and much more.
So what can each of us do as individuals to make sure that the number one answer soon is - They like it?

1. If you work in an office, post on the memo board an amusing poetry about the office or a situation you were just in. Use it to improve the environment. Be proud of your work.

2. If you work at a Doctors office or place where there is a reception - put out your chapbooks or books for people to glance through (of course check this with your employer - but I bet they would love it).

3. Teach a friend how to write a Haiku - make them feel like a poet. Don't know how to do that yourself, check out our on-line lessons.

4. Tailor your readings to your audience. If you are presenting to a general audience, pick some of your lighter poetry. Not to insinuate they are not intellectually capable of understanding your heavier work, but to appeal to the broadest base of the audience.

5. Find out why someone thinks poetry is boring. Confront them. You can tell these people when their eyes roll back as you tell them what you do (and please tell them what you do!!). Correct their impression, or help them overcome any barriers they have erected. For every individual we each strip of false data or bad experiences they have had, that is one more audience member for all of us!

6. Think of any way you can to help improve the entry and understanding of poets and poetry

7. If you have an idea, send it to us!
We will be conducting surveys often to help us monitor and continue to successfully help increase our value as an Organization, and as a concerned society for the preservation and promotion of poetry and the arts. Please be sure to take part in these when they come up. A little opinion can go a long way when you know it is being heard. And at the CFP - we hear you!

Hope these results help.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Join the FREE ezine and keep in touch

Poetry Certification Expands Your Viewpoint

2007-02-24T15:29:00.000-08:00

Canadian Federation of Poets "Poet's Certification" program

Along with the on-line communities you can choose from, we have just added an Education Certificate program. Each week you will complete a lesson, and post the results on the forum. If you complete all 52 poetry, prose and/or writing lessons, we will send you a beautiful certificate for your wall, and provide you with the confidence to approach any type of poetry.

Then we'll round out the course with lessons such as a 'live poetry reading', poet promotion, goals & targets and getting published to maximize the skills development of a poet. Sign up today and expand your horizons!

Also, if you are an 'expert' on any specific type of poetry that is not yet addressed on the 'curriculum', please submit a mini lesson to us, we'd love to include it.

Start learning more today...

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets

Learn How to Market Your Poetry with the Federation of Poets

2007-01-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Federation of Poets.

A group dedicated to uniting people and organizations from around the world in the global promotion of poets and poetry.

We do so by educating youth and adults on the importance of poetry in their lives, and providing an environment where all poets and organizations can unite to create one voice.

When you want to take your poetry career to the next level, turn to the experts in the poetry business.

Tracy Repchuk
President and Founder of the Canadian Federation of Poets
Founder of Poetry Canada Magazine
http://www.federationofpoets.com

http://www.poetrycanada.com