Author: news

Academic Publishing: The Times They Are a-Changin’

Challenges and Opportunities

The academic publishing landscape is undergoing significant changes. The rise of open access has made research more accessible, but it also poses challenges. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the sector, presenting both opportunities and obstacles. To navigate this complex environment, it’s essential to understand the core skills required for academic success, such as writing, editing, and pitching.

Why Publish?

According to Walid Saad of Virginia Tech, researchers have a responsibility to publish their work. This not only benefits established scholars but also students, as it provides them with valuable experience and opportunities for growth.

Getting Started

Before publishing, it’s crucial to evaluate your research and determine the best fit for your work. The resources below offer guidance on crafting a proposal, choosing the right medium, and establishing your credibility.

Proposal Tips
  • Understand the publishing cycle and what makes a strong manuscript
  • Know your audience and tailor your proposal accordingly
  • Highlight the benefits and impact of your research
  • Showcase your writing style and expertise
Peer Review: A Crucial Step

Peer review is a vital component of the publishing process, providing a rigorous evaluation of your work. However, it can also be a challenge, with some reviewers providing unprofessional or unhelpful comments.

Benefits of Peer Review
  • Improved quality and accuracy of research
  • Enhanced credibility and reputation
  • Opportunity for constructive feedback and revision
    • Common Mistakes
    • Failing to address reviewer comments
    • Not providing sufficient context or background information
    • Not clearly articulating the research question or objectives

    AI and Publishing

    Artificial intelligence is transforming the publishing landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges. Generative AI (GenAI) can assist with writing, editing, and research, but it also raises concerns about plagiarism and authorship. Using AI in Publishing

    • Generative AI can help with writing and editing, but use it responsibly
    • Understand the limitations and potential biases of AI-generated content
    • Use AI tools to enhance your research, but not replace human expertise

    Launching Your Own Journal

    If you’re frustrated with the traditional publishing process, consider launching your own open-access journal. This can be a fulfilling and challenging experience, requiring careful planning and execution. DIY Guide to Starting a Journal

    • Define your journal’s mission and scope
    • Establish a editorial board and peer-review process
    • Secure funding and support
    • Develop a marketing strategy
    Open Access and Institutional Repositories

    Open access publishing has democratized knowledge dissemination, making research more accessible to a global audience. Institutional repositories can provide an alternative to traditional publishing, offering benefits such as increased visibility and citations. Benefits of Open Access

    • Faster dissemination and creation of knowledge
    • Increased accessibility and visibility
    • Improved research quality and credibility
    Promoting Your Work

    After publication, it’s essential to promote your work to reach a wider audience. This can involve social media, conferences, and outreach to media outlets. Tips for Promoting Your Work

    • Identify your target audience and tailor your message accordingly
    • Use social media and online platforms to reach a wider audience
    • Prepare a press kit and pitch your story to media outlets
    • Engage with your audience and respond to feedback
    Conclusion

    Academic publishing is a complex and ever-changing field, requiring a range of skills and strategies to succeed. By understanding the core skills of writing, editing, and pitching, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, researchers can navigate the challenges and opportunities of the publishing landscape.

The Lost Art of Letter Writing: A Rebirth in the Digital Era

The Art of Letter Writing: A Joyful Connection in the Digital Age
The art of letter writing has been a staple of human connection for centuries, but with the rise of digital communication, it seems like this ancient practice is on the verge of extinction. However, as Rachel Syme, a New Yorker staff writer, discovered during the early days of the pandemic, letter writing can still be a powerful tool for building meaningful relationships and fostering creativity.

The Power of Pen Pal Exchange

Syme learned that the desire to reconnect with others during the pandemic sparked a letter-writing initiative that brought together thousands of people. Her program, PenPalooza, aimed to connect individuals who shared a passion for letter writing and provided a platform for people to exchange letters and build relationships.

  • These efforts not only reignited Syme’s love for letter writing but also inspired her to write a comprehensive guide to modern correspondence, “PenPalooza: A Guide to Modern Correspondence,” published in January 2024.
  • The book offers practical advice on how to find a pen pal, write a delightful dispatch, and includes letters from famous writers like Octavia Butler and Zelda Fitzgerald for inspiration.

Getting Started with Letter Writing

Syme shares her expertise on how to begin an epistolary habit, emphasizing the importance of starting with those closest to you. She suggests making a post on social media to reach out to friends and family, explaining that “you’d be surprised how far that will take you.”

  1. Another approach is to use writing prompts to spark creativity and encourage self-expression.
  2. Some ideas include sharing a favorite life hack, describing an extravagant impulse purchase, or creating a map of a stroll through a neighborhood, filled with descriptions of favorite memories.
  3. Polaroids, personal recipes, or even Mad Libs can be used to add a creative touch to your letters.

Adding a Personal Touch

Syme recommends incorporating small gifts into your letters to make them more special. She suggests including items like stickers, pressed flowers, tea bags, or paper incense to add a personal touch.

Flat items Examples
Stickers Lottery tickets
Pressed flowers Tea bags
Paper incense Iron-on patches

Choosing the Right Paper

The type of paper used can greatly enhance the experience of letter writing. Syme has experimented with various options, including postcards, vintage hotel stationery, and pink legal paper.

“Because Jacqueline Susann, who wrote Valley of the Dolls, always wrote on pink notepads, I found it inspiring.” – Rachel Syme

Preserving the Memories

Syme emphasizes the importance of taking photos of the letters you send, creating a personal archive that can be cherished for years to come. As she says, “When you write letters, you’re creating an archive, but what’s funny is you can’t really see the archive you’re creating together with the person you wrote letters to.”

The Beauty of Impermanence

Syme acknowledges that some correspondences may fade away, but this is an inherent part of the letter-writing experience. She encourages writers to appreciate the ephemeral nature of this art form.

Definition:
Correspondence as a leap of faith

“Correspondence is a leap of faith, and that is part of what makes it wonderful,” Syme says. “You may never know if the person you are writing to will write you back.”
The article is a testament to the enduring power of letter writing as a means of connection and creative expression. As Syme’s story demonstrates, this ancient practice is not only relevant but also thriving in the digital age. By embracing the art of letter writing, we can reignite our passion for human connection and foster a more meaningful understanding of ourselves and others.

The 10th Anniversary Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment Story Writing Competition

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has officially launched the 2025 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) Story Writing Competition, a prestigious event that encourages young writers to unleash their creativity and showcase their writing talents. This year, the competition celebrates its 10th anniversary, providing a unique platform for students from across the region to display their writing skills.

Why is Storytelling Important in Education?

Storytelling is an essential part of language literacy, and the CPEA Story Writing Competition aims to develop and nurture this skill in pupils. The competition provides students with the opportunity to express themselves creatively, using their imagination to craft compelling stories that reflect the rich, diverse cultures and lifestyles of the Caribbean. By participating in the competition, students can develop their writing skills, including narrative writing, and demonstrate their ability to use language effectively.

  • By participating in the CPEA Story Writing Competition, students can develop their creative writing skills, including storytelling, and enhance their language literacy.
  • The competition provides students with the opportunity to express themselves creatively, using their imagination to craft compelling stories that reflect the Caribbean culture.
  • By submitting their stories, students can gain exposure and recognition, which can boost their confidence and motivation to improve their writing skills.

Competition Highlights

  • The winner of the competition will receive a Samsung tablet and have their story featured in the top 20 stories published as eBooks on the CXC website.
  • The competition will remain open until 30 April 2025, and students can submit their entries online through the CXC website.
  • A panel of judges from across the region will evaluate the submissions, seeking original stories that ignite the imagination and reflect the rich, diverse cultures and lifestyles of the Caribbean.
Year Country Winning School
2023 Grenada St George’s Primary School
2022 Jamaica Wellesley Primary School
2021 St Lucia Concord Seventh Day Adventist School
2020 St Vincent and the Grenadines Victoria Royal School
2019 Grenada St George’s Primary School
2018 Montserrat English Harbour Primary School

What Sets This Competition Apart?

  • The CPEA Story Writing Competition is an integral part of CPEA’s broader goal of enhancing language literacy through various writing tasks, including narrative pieces.
  • The competition provides students with the opportunity to develop and display their writing skills, which is essential for their academic and personal success.
  • The unique blend of creative and academic writing tasks in CPEA helps to foster a love of reading and writing among pupils, which can have a positive impact on their educational journey.

Submission Guidelines and Entry Requirements

For more information about the competition and submission guidelines, visit the CXC website.

A Special Thank You to Our Judges

We would like to extend our gratitude to the panel of judges from across the region who have kindly agreed to evaluate the submissions and select the winners. Their expertise and dedication to promoting language literacy in the region are invaluable, and we are thankful for their support.

Conclusion

The 2025 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment Story Writing Competition is a fantastic opportunity for young writers to showcase their talents and develop their writing skills. With its unique blend of creative and academic writing tasks, this competition provides students with the chance to express themselves creatively and demonstrate their ability to use language effectively. We look forward to seeing the amazing stories that our young writers will submit.

The Enduring Love of Bob and Diana

The Letters of Bob and Diana
In the midst of World War II, amidst the chaos and destruction, a young couple’s love story blossomed, amidst the backdrop of air raids, war efforts, and separation. The letters exchanged between Bob and Diana, a pilot and his bride-to-be, reveal a tale of love, longing, and sacrifice.

Early Years of Love

Their love story began in 1939, when Bob, a young pilot, wrote to Diana, his future wife, from South Cerney in Gloucestershire. The letters, exchanged between 1939 and 1942, portray a deep affection and mutual adoration.

  • Their first letter, dated September 18, 1940, expressed Bob’s longing for Diana’s love and care during the air raids.
  • Bob’s brothers, who were serving in the war, played a significant role in their union. Bob’s younger brother, Dick, was asked to be the best man at their wedding, and his younger brother, John, was a sergeant pilot stationed in Newmarket, who was fatally injured on a training flight.

A Separation of War

In October 1940, Bob was posted to George, a town about 250 miles east along the coast from Cape Town, for navigation and reconnaissance training. The letters from this period reveal the difficulties of their separation, as Bob struggled to find the time and resources to communicate with Diana.

  1. Despite the distance, their love continued to flourish. Bob was thrilled to have managed to phone up to say that their Saturday off had been cancelled, and he had ordered a uniform on the strength of receiving his commission.
  2. Diana was also a source of comfort for Bob, who wrote to her about John’s fatal accident and expressed his own anger and sadness.

The War Effort

As the war progressed, Bob’s role as a pilot continued to grow. He was posted to the Shetland Islands, where he worked with 210 Squadron, conducting reconnaissance missions for Allied ships heading for Russia.

“I’m so tired now darling and so wanting you,” he wrote to Diana on March 23, 1941. “People out here are amazed at the way we want to get back home.”

Tragedy Strikes

On May 16, 1942, Bob’s life took a devastating turn when he disappeared while patrolling the west of Trondheim Fjord. His aircraft and crew were officially declared dead in January 1943, and their names were inscribed on the Air Forces Memorial at Runnymede, Surrey.

A New Life

In the aftermath of Bob’s disappearance, Diana found solace in her family and eventually married Bill Dawkins, a family friend who had returned from fighting in Burma. The two went on to have a daughter, Penelope Anne, who was born on October 12, 1942.

Diana’s Life Events
Got married to Bill Dawkins After Bob’s disappearance
Had a daughter, Penelope Anne Born on October 12, 1942
Moved to Sierra Leone with Bill After Bill’s career in the Colonial Service
Became a widow in 2009 When Bill died
Passed away in 2012 At the age of 91

A Legacy of Love

The letters of Bob and Diana serve as a testament to the enduring power of love, even in the darkest of times. Their story is a reminder that true love can conquer even the most daunting challenges, and that the memories and emotions of those who have come before us can continue to inspire and motivate us. “I wish I could have been home,” Bob wrote to Diana on February 22, 1941. “But now there is nothing I can do – no comfort but which will re-open the hurt and the pain.”
Despite the pain and loss they experienced, Bob and Diana’s love remained strong, and their story continues to captivate and inspire those who read about it today.

Kathleen Driskell to be the Next Kentucky Poet Laureate

**A Voice for the Commonwealth**
The Oldham County native is a well-known poet, essayist, and educator who has written six collections of poetry, including “Goat-Footed Gods,” “Blue Etiquette: Poems,” “Next Door to the Dead” and “Seed Across Snow.” She is set to become the state’s next poet laureate, a position that is chosen through a public nomination process coordinated by the Kentucky Arts Council.

Dreams of Compassion and Connection

Driskell’s writing is deeply rooted in her Kentucky upbringing, and she believes that it has the power to bring people together and deepen our capacity for compassion. “When we activate our imaginations, we are activating our capacity to love ourselves and to love one another,” she said. “We create a world that demonstrates our shared humanity is strengthened through paradoxically writing about the differences among us.”
Driskell has spoken about how her writing has given her a life she could never have imagined, and she cherishes the opportunity to pay that forward to future generations. “Language and creativity at the end are largely qualities that make us human,” she said.

The Importance of Writing

Driskell believes that all genres of art are important, but there’s something particularly humane about the work writers bring us. “All genres of art are important, but there’s something particularly humane about the work writers bring us,” she said. During her career, Driskell has won several awards, including the Appalachian Review’s Denny C. Plattner Award in Creative Nonfiction and grants from the Kentucky Arts Council and the Kentucky Foundation for Women.

A Commitment to Kentucky’s Literary Tradition

Driskell is committed to continuing the legacy of Kentucky’s literary tradition, which has produced writers such as Silas House and Maria Faisal. She believes that the state’s writers are thriving, and she hopes to continue the work of her predecessor, Silas House, who was the first openly gay Kentucky Poet Laureate.

House’s Legacy

Silas House, who became the first openly gay Kentucky Poet Laureate in 2023, has made a significant impact during his term. He has spearheaded programs such as a freely accessible creative writing curriculum, a podcast on the craft of writing, and literary workshops held at state parks across Kentucky. During the press conference, House reflected on his term as poet laureate and highlighted the importance of making writing instruction more accessible. “This work has made my love for the state only deepen,” he said.

A New Chapter for Driskell

Driskell will be officially inducted as poet laureate on April 24 as a part of the state’s celebration of Kentucky Writers Day at the Capitol. The ceremony will feature readings from Driskell, outgoing Kentucky Poet Laureate Silas House and 2024 Kentucky Youth Poet Laureate Maria Faisal.

A New Era for Kentucky’s Literary Scene

Driskell’s appointment is seen as a positive development for Kentucky’s literary scene, which has been thriving in recent years. With Driskell at the helm, the state’s writers are expected to continue to flourish, and the literary tradition will be continued through her commitment to helping the state’s writers better their craft and connect them with valuable resources.

Programs and Initiatives Description
Freely Accessible Creative Writing Curriculum A program that provides access to creative writing instruction for all citizens of Kentucky.
Podcast on the Craft of Writing A podcast that explores the art and craft of writing, hosted by Silas House.
Literary Workshops Workshops held at state parks across Kentucky, led by Silas House and other prominent writers.

Driskell’s Words of Wisdom

Driskell hopes to continue House’s commitment to making writing instruction more accessible and to bringing the state’s writers together. “I might say I’ve been lucky, but for the realization that every good thing that has happened to me has happened through a connection with another writer willing to share what they knew,” she said. She believes that writing has the power to bring people together and deepen our capacity for compassion.

A Life of Writing

Driskell has spoken about how her writing has given her a life she could never have imagined, and she cherishes the opportunity to pay that forward to future generations. Driskell will be officially inducted as poet laureate on April 24 as a part of the state’s celebration of Kentucky Writers Day at the Capitol.

Highlights of Her Career

  • Appalachian Review’s Denny C. Plattner Award in Creative Nonfiction
  • Grants from the Kentucky Arts Council and the Kentucky Foundation for Women
  • Publication of six collections of poetry

A Message from the Kentucky Arts Council

The Kentucky Arts Council is proud to have selected Driskell as the state’s next poet laureate. “We are thrilled to have Driskell on board, and we look forward to seeing the impact she will have on the state’s literary scene,” said a spokesperson for the organization.

Driskell’s Poems

*“Goat-Footed Gods”
*“Blue Etiquette: Poems”
*“Next Door to the Dead”
*“Seed Across Snow”

The Future of Kentucky’s Literary Scene

With Driskell at the helm, Kentucky’s literary scene is expected to continue to flourish. The state’s writers are expected to benefit from her commitment to helping the state’s writers better their craft and connect them with valuable resources.

A Bright Future Ahead

Driskell’s appointment is seen as a positive development for Kentucky’s literary scene, and her words of wisdom offer a glimpse into the future of the state’s literary tradition. As she begins her new role as poet laureate, Driskell is set to inspire and uplift the state’s writers, and her legacy will be one of compassion, connection, and creativity.

La’Quetta Small and Marty Small Face Multiple Criminal Indictments

Multiple Letters Allege Corruption and Mismanagement in the Atlantic City School District

La’Quetta Small, the Superintendent of the Atlantic City School District, is facing criticism and scrutiny once again. For the second consecutive week, she has been the subject of an anonymous and scathing letter writing campaign against her. The letters have been mailed to diverse members of the Atlantic City, New Jersey area, highlighting concerns about her administration and the school district as a whole. The most recent letter, postmarked on April 14, 2025, is particularly critical of La’Quetta Small, despite not mentioning Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small by name. The letter raises serious concerns about potential corruption, mismanagement, and questionable ethical practices within the Atlantic City School District.

Concerns about Personal Conduct and Priorities

The letter highlights concerns about La’Quetta Small’s personal conduct and priorities. It suggests that she may have prioritized professional power over personal well-being, citing her decision to remain in her demanding position instead of taking time off to address a fractured relationship with her teenage daughter. This raises questions about her ability to effectively lead the school district, particularly in matters related to student well-being and safety.

  • Personal relationships and priorities may impact decision-making and leadership
  • Effective leaders prioritize both personal and professional responsibilities
  • La’Quetta Small’s decision to stay in her position despite a personal crisis may indicate a lack of self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Criminal Indictments Against Marty and La’Quetta Small

Marty Small, the Mayor of Atlantic City, and his wife La’Quetta Small, the Superintendent of the Atlantic City School District, have faced multiple criminal indictments. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office has charged them with:

  1. Second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child
  2. Third-degree Terroristic Threats
  3. Third-degree Aggravated Assault

According to the indictment, the defendants physically and emotionally abused their 15/16-year-old daughter on multiple occasions. One incident, on January 13, 2024, involved Marty Small allegedly hitting his daughter multiple times in the head with a broom, causing her to lose consciousness.

Additional Charges Against Marty Small

Marty Small has also been indicted separately for witness tampering by a second Atlantic County, New Jersey Grand Jury.

Concerns about Corruption and Mismanagement

The letter raises concerns about corruption and mismanagement within the Atlantic City School District. It questions the rewarding of contracts and suggests that La’Quetta Small’s administration may be prioritizing political interests over the needs of the school district and its students.

“I am writing to express my deep concern about the administration of the Atlantic City School District. I have done extensive research and have found evidence of corruption and mismanagement at the highest levels of the district. I urge you to take immediate action to address these issues and ensure that the district is serving the best interests of its students and the community.”

Conclusion

The anonymous letter writing campaign against La’Quetta Small and the Atlantic City School District raises serious concerns about corruption, mismanagement, and questionable ethical practices. The indictment of Marty and La’Quetta Small highlights the need for accountability and transparency within the district. As the school district and the community move forward, it is essential to address these concerns and ensure that the district is serving the best interests of its students and the community.

Superintendent La’Quetta Small: Child Abuse Charges and Board of Education Inaction

The Mysterious Letter

The contents of the letter have been obtained by this publication, and it is being published here for the public’s awareness. The letter was sent by mail to Atlantic City Councilman Jesse Kurtz. The return name and address reads John Exadaktillos. Exadaktillos has confirmed on his Facebook page that he did not author the letter, stating:
“Many people have reached out in support of this letter. Unfortunately, this did not come from me. Doesn’t even read like how I would have written it. So to whoever did honestly thanks from many of us, but I unfortunately can not and will not take credit. Please read it regardless, wrote Exadaktillos.”
The focus of the letter serves to warn the Atlantic City Board of Education members that they could have personal liability for their failure to take action against La’Quetta Small.

Child Abuse Charges Against La’Quetta Small

* La’Quetta Small is currently facing child abuse charges. * The charges stem from allegations made by her 17-year-old son regarding La’Quetta Small’s treatment of him. * The allegations include physical and emotional abuse. * The charges are considered serious and carry significant penalties if convicted.

Comparison with Constance Days-Chapman Case

  • Constance Days-Chapman, the Principal of Atlantic City High School, was indicted on August 17, 2024, on various criminal charges.
  • These charges include second-degree Official Misconduct, second-degree Pattern of Official Misconduct, second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and third-degree Hindering Apprehension of Another.

In contrast, La’Quetta Small is alleged to have committed similar or more severe acts of abuse against her own child.

The Atlantic City Board of Education’s Inaction

* The Atlantic City Board of Education has been criticized for its inaction in addressing the allegations against La’Quetta Small. * This inaction has raised concerns about the board’s accountability and commitment to protecting students and staff. * The board’s failure to take decisive action may have personal liability implications for its members.

Personal Liability for Board Members

* The letter warns Atlantic City Board of Education members that they could have personal liability for their failure to take action against La’Quetta Small. * This warning highlights the need for transparency and accountability within the board. * Board members must be held accountable for their actions and inactions, especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable populations like children.

Quotes from the Letter

“…the lack of any action by the Board of Education to address these allegations is a clear indication of their willful ignorance and blatant disregard for the well-being of students and staff. This lack of action, coupled with the board’s failure to implement any measures to prevent future incidents, is a clear indication of their incompetence and lack of accountability.”
“…the Board of Education’s inaction in this case is a clear indication of their willingness to put the interests of the school district above the well-being of students and staff. This willingness to prioritize the interests of the school district over the well-being of students and staff is a clear indication of their incompetence and lack of accountability.”
These quotes highlight the concerns raised by the letter and underscore the need for the Atlantic City Board of Education to take immediate action to address the allegations against La’Quetta Small.

Conclusion

The letter serves as a warning to the Atlantic City Board of Education members that they could have personal liability for their failure to take action against La’Quetta Small. The letter also highlights the need for transparency and accountability within the board. We hope that this publication has shed light on this critical issue and will prompt the board to take immediate action to address the allegations against La’Quetta Small.

Unlocking the Power of Writing

Writing Down the Bones: A Life-Changing Book About Becoming a Better Writer
While browsing through a thrift store, I stumbled upon a book that would change my life forever. Natalie Goldberg’s Writing Down the Bones caught my eye, and I couldn’t resist bringing it home. As a writer, I often find myself collecting books on writing, hoping to uncover the secrets to improving my craft. However, I didn’t expect to find a book that would resonate so deeply with me. Writing Down the Bones isn’t just a book about writing; it’s a book about being human. It’s about facing our fears, confronting the parts of ourselves we’ve been too afraid to acknowledge, and becoming better writers in the process. Goldberg’s insight is so profound that Writing Down the Bones has sold over one million copies worldwide. This impressive number is a testament to the impact of her words on readers. As I delved into the book, I found myself drawn to Goldberg’s unique approach to writing. She encourages readers to write about what disturbs them, what they fear, and what they’ve been too afraid to speak about. This approach may seem daunting, but it’s exactly what I needed to shake up my writing routine. Goldberg’s words also resonated with me when she said, “This is your life. You are responsible for it. You will not live forever. Don’t wait.” These words served as a reminder that our time is limited, and we must make the most of it. I started pulling parts of Writing Down the Bones to use in my own practice, and the results were astonishing. I began writing every day, and my understanding of what it means to be a writer improved dramatically. The book’s impact on my life was profound, and I wanted to share it with others. Here are some key takeaways from Writing Down the Bones:

  • Goldberg’s approach to writing is holistic, encompassing both the creative and spiritual aspects of writing
  • The book encourages readers to face their fears and confront their doubts, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth
  • Goldberg’s emphasis on writing as a spiritual practice can help readers cultivate a deeper connection with their creative selves

If you’re looking for a book that will challenge you to become a better writer, look no further than Writing Down the Bones. With its timeless wisdom and inspiring stories, this book is sure to resonate with writers of all levels.

Key Takeaways Description
1. Holistic approach to writing Goldberg’s approach to writing encompasses both the creative and spiritual aspects of writing, helping readers to cultivate a deeper connection with their creative selves
2. Facing fears and doubts The book encourages readers to face their fears and confront their doubts, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth
3. Spiritual aspect of writing Goldberg’s emphasis on writing as a spiritual practice can help readers cultivate a deeper connection with their creative selves

As I close this chapter of Book Talk, I want to leave you with Goldberg’s words: “Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open.” These words serve as a reminder that our writing is a reflection of our inner selves, and that it’s okay to be vulnerable and honest in our writing. In conclusion, Writing Down the Bones is a book that will challenge you to become a better writer, but it’s also a book that will inspire you to become a better version of yourself. It’s a book that will help you find your voice, and it’s a book that will stay with you forever.

“Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open.” — Natalie Goldberg

Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start writing.

The Power of Writing Centers

The Cornell Writing Centers, Graduate Writing Service, and writing workshops are essential services that support students in their academic writing endeavors. The John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines, which oversees these services, is committed to fostering a culture of writing excellence across campus.

Benefits of Writing Centers

•

  • Improved writing skills: The writing centers provide students with one-on-one tutoring and peer review, which helps them identify areas for improvement and develop their writing skills.
  • Increased confidence: Working with tutors and peers, students gain confidence in their writing abilities and are better equipped to tackle complex writing tasks.
  • Enhanced research skills: The writing centers offer research support, helping students develop their research skills and produce high-quality papers.
  • Support across campus: The writing centers are located in various locations on campus, making it easy for students to access support services.

The Cornell Writing Center: A Hub for Writing Support

The Cornell Writing Center, located in Uris Library, is a hub for writing support on campus. The center offers one-on-one tutoring, group tutoring, and peer review sessions. Students can drop in for help with any writing project, from essays and papers to research papers and theses.

Writing Center Services Services Offered
One-on-One Tutoring Individualized writing coaching and feedback
Group Tutoring Small group sessions for peer review and feedback
Peer Review Workshops and drop-in sessions for reviewing and giving feedback on writing
Drop-in Tutoring Walk-in sessions for general writing assistance

A Personal Story of Success

Krystlove Yeboah, a government major in the College of Arts & Sciences, is one of many students who has benefited from the writing centers. Yeboah, who is not a native English speaker, initially felt that her high school writing skills needed improvement. However, after visiting the writing center frequently, she gained confidence in her writing abilities and is now taking the training course to become a tutor herself in the fall. “‘I want to be able to help people and demystify what it takes to be a good writer,’” Yeboah said. “By asking writers questions about their work, they can notice the weaknesses and add to their papers to fully defend their viewpoints or theses.’

The Knight Institute’s Role in Supporting Writing Excellence

The John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines is the main organization behind the writing centers, Graduate Writing Service, and writing workshops. The institute coordinates first-year writing seminars, the writing in the majors program, and provides writing support across campus through its outreach efforts.

  • John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines: The main organization behind the writing centers, Graduate Writing Service, and writing workshops.
  • Coordination of first-year writing seminars and the writing in the majors program.
  • Providing writing support across campus through outreach efforts.

A New Home for the Knight Institute

The John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines has recently moved into a newly-renovated space in Stimson Hall, which is also home to the Language Resource Center and the Office of Undergraduate Biology. “

‘We are excited to be in this new space, which provides us with a more collaborative and dynamic environment for our work,’

said [Name], Director of the John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines.

Conclusion

The Cornell Writing Centers, Graduate Writing Service, and writing workshops are essential services that support students in their academic writing endeavors. By providing one-on-one tutoring, group tutoring, and peer review sessions, the writing centers help students develop their writing skills and confidence. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines plays a crucial role in supporting writing excellence across campus. With its new home in Stimson Hall, the institute is poised to continue its mission of fostering a culture of writing excellence.

A Galtee Mountain Boy

A Galtee Mountain Boy is a book that is the culmination of a lifelong passion for storytelling and creative writing. The book is a collection of stories, poems, and photographs that chronicle the life of its author, Mick Morrissey. The stories are a mix of humorous, poignant, and thought-provoking, and are infused with a deep sense of place and identity. Mick’s journey as a writer began during the pandemic, when he found himself with a wealth of material and inspiration. He had always been interested in creative writing, but it wasn’t until the lockdown that he felt the urge to put pen to paper.
In his book, Mick draws on his experiences as a prison officer, his love of nature, and his family’s history to create a rich and nuanced portrait of his life. The book is not just a personal memoir, but also a tribute to the people and places that have shaped him.

  • Some of the stories in the book are based on real events and people from Mick’s past, while others are entirely fictional.
  • Mick’s love of nature is also evident in the many photographs that accompany the text, which showcase the beauty of the Galtee Mountains.
  • The book is also infused with a sense of humor, as Mick pokes fun at himself and the absurdities of life.

Mick’s inspiration for the book came from a combination of factors. He had always been interested in creative writing, and had completed an LOETB level 6 creative writing course with distinction. However, it wasn’t until he started attending creative writing classes with the LOETB and Laois Libraries that he began to feel confident in his writing abilities.

Course Level Outcomes
LOETB Level 6 Creative Writing Distinction Completed course with distinction

Mick’s writing has been recognized by several literary organizations. He has been published in Anthology magazine, and has made contributions to other publications, including the 2022 LOETB book Scribbles to Scribes.

“I was told not to be bothering with my questions about Tony Hayes, but I never gave up. And now, I’ve found him. I thought I was the only one left alive from my class and, all my life and going through my career, I always wondered where Tony was. I only found him after the pandemic and I met him. The Daily Mirror picked this story up.”
— Mick Morrissey

Mick’s passion for creative writing is evident in every aspect of his book. From the way he structures his stories to the way he uses language, he is a masterful storyteller.

The Power of Words

Mick is a regular at open-mic sessions, and is well-known at the Power of Words Festival in Abbeyleix. He has also read at the Laois Leaves Festival in the Dunamaise Arts Centre, and has been involved in several other literary events around the county.

Event Location
Power of Words Festival Abbeyleix
Laois Leaves Festival Dunamaise Arts Centre

Mick’s love of reading and writing has inspired him to create a community of like-minded individuals. He is grateful for the support of his fellow writers, and is excited to share his book with them.

A Launch to Remember

The book launch will take place on Thursday, April 17th, at noon in Mountmellick Library. Tea, coffee, and treats will be available, and the book will be available for purchase. Mick will read from his work and sign copies, making it a special and intimate event.

  • The launch is open to everyone, and is a great opportunity to meet Mick and learn more about his book.

A Galtee Mountain Boy is a book that is sure to captivate readers. With its unique blend of stories, poems, and photographs, it is a must-read for anyone who loves literature. Mick Morrissey’s passion for creative writing is evident on every page, and his book is a testament to the power of storytelling.