Thanks to the writers in Henderson County for the 2014 Netwest Picnic

It was a good day and lots of fun when we gathered for the Netwest picnic in Hendersonville recently.

photo by Ellen Schofield

 In spite of a slight drizzle most of the afternoon, under the cover of a large pavilion at Jackson Park, the writers, including Jack Prather, Emilee Hines, Susan Snowden, Lana Hendershott, Pat Vestal, Betty Reed, Paul M. Schofield, Susan Lefler, Martha O. Adams, Karen Luke and others enjoyed the array of sandwich fixings purchased from Ingles, which included their cold cuts, artisan breads and condiments, along with chips, fruit and cookies.

When Lana gave a quiz on NCWN and NCWN West, long time members knew most of the answers, but Ellen Schofield, Program Coordinator for NCWN West, and I had the highest scores. Surprised?

A number of books had been donated as prizes and I was delighted to win a copy of Jack Prather's book, Twelve Notables of Western North Carolina. I learned that we can expect another book on notable women. I look forward to reading that one.

My thanks to Lana, Pat, Martha and all the writers who helped with the picnic, and who made me and my guest, Rebecca Gallo, feel so welcome. Once again I was reminded that the writers of NCWN West (Netwest) are some of the nicest and most supportive people I've ever met.

COFFEE WITH THE POETS Hayesville, August gathering

Once again we had a full house for Coffee with the Poets at Cafe Touche' in Hayesville.
Joan Howard of Hiawassee and Athens, GA was one of the featured readers.

From Brevard, NC, Susan Lefler, author of a new poetry book, Rendering the Bones,
was also featured.

Bob Groves agreed to be photographer for the day and the following are some photos he made of those who enjoyed the social aspect of the morning.

Joan Howard and Glenda Barrett

Brenda Kay Ledford and Maren Mitchell

                       Bob Grove reading at open mic. He gave me the camera while he read.

New Magazine on the Market

Recently Michael Beadle of Canton, NC read at the John C. Campbell Folk School. He brought with him a copy of the Smoky Mountain Living magazine. He, Gary Carden and Susan Lefler, all members of NCWN West write for this magazine, published by Scott McLeod.


Smoky Mountain Living can be found on stands all over the country, according to Michael, not just in North Carolina. Articles are focused on the mountain area including the high country and south western counties such as Clay, Cherokee and Graham.


This is another opportunity for writers to submit stories and poems. The magazine is a paying market. Go to the website, and see for yourself.


I was impressed with the wide variety of subjects covered in the Fall 2008 issue.