MWSA Social Media News

MWSA members now have several new ways to interact and find out what’s going on with your organization.

A few days ago, we created two new social media accounts on Facebook and Twitter. These new accounts add to our existing presence on Goodreads and YouTube.

Please visit our new locations and help us spread the word about MWSA:

• Like us

• Friend us

• Retweet or share stories of interest with friends or on your own social media platforms

Each of the above actions helps increase MWSA’s online visibility… and that helps us find and attract new members.

You’ll find links to all MWSA social media connections at the bottom of every page of our main website. Just click on any of those links—or the ones below—to see what’s going on and to participate in the action.

Please remember that we’re a volunteer organization. If you can spare a few minutes each month to help us with these various social media platforms, please consider doing so. Let us know you have a question or comment—and especially if you’re interested in lending a hand—by clicking on the button at the end of this page.

How can you help?

You can…

• help us with content

  • share your research, writing, editing, publishing, and/or marketing tales of success… or your horror stories

  • ask a question

  • make a suggestion

• help us with management and oversight

  • Help us manage a particular page or platform

  • Find and let us know about unanswered questions or inappropriate posts or comments

• learn how some of these platforms work—even if you’re a “social media neophyte”—which will help in your own social media/marketing efforts

Just visit our Contact Page and click on the “Volunteer Form” button—we’ll try to answer as quickly as we can.

2018 Election Results

Click here for more details on our new MWSA leadership

Winners of the recent MWSA directors election are:

President - Bob Doerr
Vice-President - George Jackson
Secretary - Joe Epley
Treasurer - Hugh Simpson

Members-at-Large:
Larry Greenly, Phil Keith, John Cathcart, Jim Tritten

Visit the MWSA website, http://www.mwsadispatches.com/structure-documents/#Committees, for more information on the offices and duties.

Be sure and visit the MWSA website, http://www.mwsadispatches.com/2018-season, for the 2018 Book Awards winners.

Jack London's Meuse-Argonne Cemetery Report & Video

Click for website

MWSA Education Director, Jack London recently wrote a report and uploaded a video to YouTube outlining his experiences at the Meuse-Argonne Cemetery on November 11th this year.  Although technical challenges kept us from seeing Jack’s live transmission during our annual conference in Charleston, you can learn about his experiences by clicking on the buttons below:

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A Message From Jack

It is an honor to be a part of such an event and to be able to do so in the name of our group.  My preparation for the experience, the experience itself, and the back-at-home now work on the report and video have made a profound impact on me.  They are mixtures of pride, humility, work, and especially the emotional component that came over me as I prepared for the event (you’ll know what I mean when you read the report) and the event itself.

I did not do these alone. In addition to my wife Alice’s support and incredible work on film and video, and the companions who helped along the way, I must add that you helped.  I could not have done this without your encouragement and support, your advice and suggestions. 

I truly hope this experience adds to MWSA and that our members, especially those who asked us to recognize their ancestors at their graves, are rewarded by our efforts.

Thank you,
Jack Woodville London

Joint Writing Conference September 2019

The Military Writers Society of America (MWSA) and SouthWest Writers (SWW) will co-host a joint writing conference at the Hotel Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico, from Thursday September 12th through Sunday September 15th 2019. Program details are still being developed but the concept will be to share the strengths of both organizations in a series of classes and workshops designed to help writers learn from specialists they would not normally encounter.

 Albuquerque, New Mexico, is known for the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, chile [red or green is the state question], Native Americans living in close proximity, Breaking Bad, and its extraordinary Spanish culture. New Mexico is known officially as the “Land of Enchantment,” but locals refer to the state as the “Land of Entrapment” – many who come to visit stay. Here are some links to what to do while in Albuquerque.

 https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60933-Activities-Albuquerque_New_Mexico.html

 https://www.visitalbuquerque.org/things-to-do/

 https://www.thecrazytourist.com/top-25-things-to-do-in-albuquerque-nm/

 MWSA is a nation-wide association of some 279 authors, poets, and artists, drawn together by the common bond of military service.  Most of its members are active duty military, retirees, or military veterans.  A few are lifelong civilians who have chosen to honor our military through their writings or their art.  Others have only a tangential relationship to the military.  MWSA will take the lead on teaching a free day-long writing class at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque on Thursday, September 12th, 2019.

 SWW brings a wealth of expertise to the conference. This would include memoir, southwest setting, mystery/thriller, poetry, short stories, romance, sci-fi, westerns, non-fiction, fantasy, action, history, humor, etc. SWW is devoted to helping both published and unpublished writers improve their craft and further their careers. SWW serves its 329 members and all writers of all skill levels in every fiction and nonfiction genre. 

 SWW knows a bit about MWSA. This year, nine SWW members are finalists in the annual published book contest and will be awarded medals in Charleston, SC. In the past, the MWSA director of education, Jack Woodville London, spoke and taught classes at SWW. Similarly, members of SWW have spoken and taught classes at MWSA conferences. Jim Tritten, Larry Greenly, Jack London, Joe Badal, Brinn Colenda, Pat Walkow, and Tom Neiman are all members of both organizations and have volunteered their services to develop a program that is sure to inspire everyone.

 Next year’s joint conference in Albuquerque will also include an awards ceremony where MWSA recognizes highly talented authors who have published a book. SWW is considering holding an awards ceremony at the conference. Writers interested in participating in the annual MWSA contest can do so by applying at http://www.mwsadispatches.com/ after the first of the year.

 Anyone with specific recommendations for the program are welcome to contact the Conference Coordinator, Jim Tritten, at jimtritten@comcast.net. Of course, Jim welcomes hearing from anyone interested in helping at any level.

Veterans Writing Workshop 2018

The Military Writers Society of America (MWSA) is conducting a "Writing Your Story Workshop" to assist veterans and their families by helping them write their stories. The event will be held at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Robert H. Johnson VA Medical Center, 109 Bee St., Charleston, SC, on Nov. 8, 2018 from 9:15 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided. The workshop is geared to storytelling whether the student may be working on a novel, a memoir, a short story, or an article, both fiction and nonfiction.

MWSA member Don Helin will be leading this workshop assisted by MWSA member Valerie Ormond. Lindsay Strehl will also provide information on the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC) Programs. MWSA welcomes all veterans, military, and family members at all levels of writing from beginners to seasoned writers. The VA Medical Center will determine final onsite class location closer to the venue. Information will be posted to this website or by calling (843) 577-5011.

Announcement of 2018 Season Awards Finalists

MWSA will be announcing our 2018 Season Awards Finalists this evening (Sunday, September 16th) at 9PM Eastern Time.

The announcement will first be broadcast via YouTube video—a link to that video will be provided on our 2018 Season page:

https://www.mwsadispatches.com/2018-season/

After the video announcement, the finalists will be posted on our website (same page as above).

All 2018 season authors, who haven't already been notified, will receive email notifications by Sunday night or Monday morning.

May 2018 Info Blast

NEW MWSA OFFICERS and DIRECTORS
Nominating committee lead Rob Ballister wants to remind everyone that elections are coming up, and that we are always looking for motivated individuals to serve in our all-volunteer organization.  This year we will be holding elections to the offices of President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, as well as four additional at large Directors.  If you wish to throw your hat into the ring, or have ANY questions, please do not hesitate to contact Rob at rballister@verizon.net.

ARMISTICE DAY
November 11, the day the guns went quiet.  MWSA will honor the memory of the men and women who served in WW1 on the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ended the fighting in the Great War.  Our member Jack Woodville London, MWSA Director of Education, will represent MWSA at the memorial service at the Meuse - Argonne American Military Cemetery in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, France on that day. 
Is one of your ancestors, family friends, or other man or woman who is special to your history buried in that cemetery, the largest American military cemetery in Europe?  Please share the name of someone you would like to be honored and Jack will do his best to place a flag or poppies at the headstone and offer our gratitude for such sacrifice; jack@jackwlondon.com.

MAKE PLANS NOW FOR CHARLESTON
 A city rich in history, tradition, and restaurants, Charleston awaits you November 8 through 11 during MWSA's Annual Meeting.  Whether a novice or seasoned pro, you will benefit from gathering with kindred spirits and participating in inspirational workshops. Take advantage of the early bird special of $195 to register for the conference  (www.mwsadispatches.com)  and the low hotel rate of $125 a night at the Hilton Garden Inn, Mount Pleasant (843-606-4600).  Be sure to tell the hotel you are with MSWA.

In addition to the book awards banquet, there is much to do and see in Charleston.  Its fun, entertaining, and educational.  Make your reservation now.

NEW MAILING ADDRESS
On April 1st, the Military Writers Society of America, or MWSA, mailing address was changed to:
          1906 South 70th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
The web sites and correspondence reflect this address change. 
 

MWSA Goodreads page

Click on image to visit our MWSA page on Goodreads

In an effort to expand our MWSA "internet presence" and credibility--as well as get our members' books "out there"--we've created our own MWSA page on Goodreads.

We've just updated the page so that all books and reviews since 2017 are now posted.

Please visit our Goodreads page and become "friends!"

If anyone would be interested in helping maintain our Goodreads presence, please let us know. 

New Member Resource Directory

Click on image to go to our new Member Resources Directory page.

As a service to its members, MWSA has created new member resource directory page on our website. 

The page is meant to provide information and contact details for organizations offering services to writers and veterans.

We encourage all MWSA members to offer (or recommend) services to other members--whether their own services or those of other private or governmental organizations.  The page includes an easy-to-use online form to submit a new organization or company.

In order to list your own services, you must be an MWSA member in good standing. 

MWSA is offering this page as a service to our members.  We are not specifically endorsing any company or organization listed on that page.

March 2018 Info Blast

NEW MWSA OFFICERS and DIRECTORS
We'd like to remind everyone that this is an election year for MWSA.  In August we will be sending a ballot to all members with candidates so you can cast your votes. Between now and the beginning of August, we will be seeking volunteers to run for office.  Elections will be held for President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and for four additional at large Directors.  Please get involved, and if you'd like to run for office, let us know.  More information will be forthcoming, but for now, think about stepping up and running for office or for a position on the board.
 

BOOK REVIEWERS WANTED
We are receiving a steady stream of books for our "Review & Awards" program. Our present book reviewers  have their plate full, so we are asking for more members to volunteer for this rewarding endeavor. Just respond to this Blast! with your intentions and you will be contacted with details for reviewers.
 

MAKE PLANS NOW FOR CHARLESTON
 A city rich in history, tradition, and restaurants, Charleston awaits you November 8 through 11 during MWSA's Annual Meeting.  Whether a novice or seasoned pro, you will benefit from gathering with kindred spirits and participating in inspirational workshops. Take advantage of the early bird special of $195 to register for the conference  (www.mwsadispatches.com)  and the low hotel rate of $125 a night at the Hilton Garden Inn, Mount Pleasant (843-606-4600).  Be sure to tell the hotel you are with MSWA.

In addition to the book awards banquet, there is much to do and see in Charleston.  Its fun, entertaining, and educational.  Make your reservation now.
 

NEW MAILING ADDRESS
Come April 1st, the Military Writers Society of America, or MWSA, mailing address will be changing to:
          1906 South 70th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
The web sites and correspondence will reflect this address change shortly. 
 

Online Library -- Progress Report

Click on image above to visit our library

The MWSA Online Library has recently completed transferring all award-winning books going back to the 2004 Season.

In the future, we hope to add all books submitted to MWSA... but this is going to take some time.

Please let us know if you'd like to help out with this project.

We've also created a new, cover-only page that allows you to quickly peruse each season's books.  

February 2018 Info Blast

We are starting the year off with a bang.  Books are flowing in to be reviewed, membership renewals are coming in as expected, plans for the conference this November 8-10 in Charleston, SC, are being made, and we ended 2017 in good financial shape.

MWSA will hold elections this year for all officers and board positions.  A call for volunteers to run for office or the board will be sent out in the next month or two.  If you want to participate but not hold a formal position we have a number of committees that could always use additional help.  Our website MWSADispatches.com is becoming better and better every day. 

Remember to mark your calendars and save the dates for our conference in November this year. We have kept the rates down again making it one of the least expensive conferences of its kind.  If you want to participate in a panel, or do a presentation, or have a subject you would like to be discussed at the conference, let us know. A conference registration form has been posted on our website under "NEWS & EVENTS." Again, there is an "Early Bird Special" for registration. You may pay through PayPal after completing the registration on-line.
We hope to have representation at the Aisne-Marne American WWI Cemetery in France this year for its centennial celebration of the Armistice.  As part of this effort, we would like to know if any of our membership have relatives who were buried there or elsewhere in France during WWI.  If there are any, we would like to acknowledge them.  

If you have a response to any of the above, please send your response to Bob Doerr at rddoerr@cs.com.

The MWSA WWI Anthology is in the design process . . . no more submissions are being accepted. Plans are for publication in early April.

In memoriam:
Member and author, Albert Ashforth passed. He was a book award winner and contributor to earlier MWSA Anthologies. His wife, Erika, has continued with MWSA membership for the year.

Prior Season Books being added to our website

Click on image to go to our brand new "Covers Only page"

MWSA is finally getting around to a long-overdue transfer of books and reviews from prior awards seasons.  We will continue to add books to our library as time permits.

As of today (1/28/2018), we've added about 260 books, which used to be available only on one of our old (and outdated) MWSA websites.

Our focus is on transferring books that have won awards from MWSA.  Eventually, we hope to transfer all our members' books and reviews.

As part of this process, we've also added a new feature to our MWSA online library: "All Seasons, Cover-Only book pages."  Books are grouped by Review & Awards Season.  As with all our library listings, you can click on a books cover to go directly to the book's details page.

Click here to go to the Main Covers Page. 

If you'd like to help out with this transfer process, please contact the MWSA Awards Director.

2015/2016 Season Books and Reviews now available in our online library

Click on the image to go to a listing of all books submitted for the 2015/2016 season

It's taken a while, but we've finally uploaded all books and MWSA reviews for our 2015/2016 Season.  As a reminder, books submitted for this period were combined into one awards season.

We're very glad that we were able to recognize many of the award winners from this season in a joint awards banquet, which was held in San Antonio, Texas this past September 2017.

A list of the award winners for this season has been available on our website for some time (click button below to see that list).  Now, you'll also be able to learn more about each book and read our MWSA review for each one.

2018 Review Season is now open for submissions

To learn more or to submit your book, click on the image above

It's already January 15th in some parts of the world... so we've opened our 2018 Review and Award Consideration window.

All MWSA authors are now free to submit their books.

Good luck!

Website update--book address changes

Attention authors who have a book listed on our website...

We have made some updates to the website that inadvertently changed the URL (or link address) to your book.  If you've set up a link to your book on our website from some other website or location, you'll have to update your listing to reflect this change.

How do you do this?

1. Go to our online library
2. Find the search block near the top of the page, and enter your book title or author name to find your book.
3. Once your book comes up, click on the title, which will bring you to your book's individual listing on our website
4. The new address will be visible in your browser's address block... that's the new address
5. Copy and paste the new address wherever needed

Sorry for any inconvenience this update caused our members!

If you have any questions, please contact our Awards Directors

2018 Review Season--Six days to go

2018 Season opening soon

The 2018 review season will open in six days--on the 15th of January.  On that date, all MWSA members in good standing will be able to visit our online store and submit their book for review and award consideration for a fee of $40.

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Become an MWSA Reviewer

We're expecting our 2018 season to be even busier than last year's season.  That means we can look forward to even more great books to read, enjoy and review.  However, this also means we'll need more help getting all that reading, enjoying and reviewing  done.

A few points to remember:

• Each book is read by three reviewers
  • If 100 books are submitted, we'll have 300 "review opportunities"
  • That's a lot of reading... the more volunteer reviewers, the better!
• Some reviewers read more than two dozen books last year!
• We get a lot of really fine books each year, and they're yours to keep (or gift to a friend or your local library) 

Adding your book to our MWSA library

Click on the image above to submit your book for the online library

As a service to our members, we're starting up a new program that allows members to add their existing or new book to our MWSA online library.  Unlike our review and award consideration submission--which costs $40--adding one book to our library will be cost-free (another benefit of your MWSA membership).

• Must be a member in good standing
• Only one book added to the library per year without cost
  • If a member wants to add more than one book per year, there will be a $5 charge
• To ensure that we can provide timely service, we are initially limiting the total number of book submissions to 100... first come, first served
• We'll try to get your book added to our library as soon as possible; but it may take a while for our volunteer staff to do all the formatting and uploading

2018 General Membership Conference dates/location approved

The MWSA Board of Directors recently approved convening our general membership conference in Charleston, South Carolina; 8-10 November 2018. 

See the Events section for more details.

MWSA gets ready for 2018 review season

MWSA Awards Director has updated our review scoring and procedures in anticipation of the start of our 2018 review season on January 15th.  The changes include...

• a new, automated scoring spreadsheet
  • reviewers will now get immediate feedback on how their numerical evaluation scores translate into medal equivalent results
  • spreadsheet has internal error-checking
• clarifications for scoring
• changes to technical scoring criteria (spelling, typos, grammar, punctuation, etc.) so that they more closely match evolving editorial philosophy in the publishing industry

The new spreadsheet has been emailed to all MWSA reviewers for comment and testing purposes, and will be ready for duty by the time our submission window opens.

MWSA authors wishing to submit their books for review and award consideration will be able to do so starting on January 15th. 

Please check out the "Review & Awards" section of our website for details.