Sedona AZ (January 18, 2014) – Author Somerset Maugham once wrote, “All the words I use in my stories can be found in the dictionary – it’s just a matter of arranging them into the right sentences.”

Writing well is the challenge of arranging words into sentences, stories, and poems that express one’s perceptions and reactions, and move readers to understand and feel them. Writing Well is the topic for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Lunch and Learn program on Wednesday, January 29, from 12:30 – 2:15 in Room 34 of Yavapai College’s Sedona campus. There is no admission fee and the public is encouraged to attend.

The panel participants, all of whom facilitate learning groups at OLLI, will be:

· Anne Crosman: journalist, author of non-fiction books, and memoir-writing coach

· Ann Metlay: lifelong educator and teacher of poetry and fiction writing

· James Myers: novelist, author of The Fever: A Romance of the Red Rocks

· William Ward: poet, psychologist, philosopher, and appreciator of fine literature.

The panelists will share lessons learned along the way as well as the principles or guidelines used during the process of writing (and recommend for others). Each panelist will offer a “backstage” view of their approach to writing and will share personal journeys to bring writing foremost into their lives. These remarks will comprise the first half of the program to be followed by a panel and audience dialogue.

There will be ample time for the panelists to question and respond to each other and for audience members to add questions and comments to the mix. The overall tone of the program will be informal, conversational and spontaneous.

Rarely is such a depth of writing experience, talent, and wisdom available at one time. Writers or those who enjoy good writing will certainly want to attend.

Bring your lunch (or come for complimentary coffee and snack) and join the informal conversation at 12:30, or come at 1:00 when the panel will begin. All are welcome to enjoy this free learning program.

OLLI is a local, volunteer, peer-to-peer, adult education program. The Winter term is just beginning and many learning groups and workshops are still open for enrollment. The catalogue is available at www.yc.edu/ollisv. For more information about the Lunch & Learn program, call 928-649-4275.

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