TED: Ideas Worth Spreading

February 18, 2013

Opportunities don’t happen, you create them.” ~ Chris Grosser 

ted2Have you ever attended an event just because your intuition tells you that you will enjoy it? I am rather excited. Next week, I have decided to attend a TED Conference at the Bud Werner Memorial Library. It will be broadcast from Long Beach, California. 

It’s interesting – the power of words. The titles of the sessions, alone,  have more than piqued my curiosity – vocabulary like progress enigma, the spark, dream, create, sustain, coded meaning, secret voices and the ripple effect. I’m on board – sounds enticing! 

Attending the gathering will be progressive thinkers and doers from the fields of technology, entertainment and design. Speakers will be challenged to stimulate and inspire others to engage in the ideas they will be presenting. 

To learn more about TED and the non-profit organization’s mission, visit their website. http://www.ted.com/

Here is the schedule for the four day event at our local library as listed on their website. The event is free, open to the public and you can attend various sessions throughout each day or stay and listen in on the entire conference. 

If  the TEDS conference is as informative and educational as I anticipate, I will be sharing some of the ideas on All Things Fulfilling two weeks from now. Join in and participate in the discussion.

Visit us again tomorrow on All Things Fulfilling, where sharing independent thoughts, words and views is all part of the business. This blog is brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Searching for Creative Outlets?

January 28, 2013

“Anyone can dabble, but once you’ve made that commitment, your blood has a particular thing in it, and it’s very hard for people to stop you.” ~ Bill Cosby 

Ever thought you’d like to explore painting but never had the gumption or confidence to try it? Or have you hesitated because you don’t want to invest in all the “gear” that comes with it, in case it ends up not really being your thing? No way to know if you will like it, unless you give it a whirl. 

What is becoming a new concept in entertainment, creativity and socializing in other places has now arrived in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Splatz Canvas and Wine is an imaginative business that provides opportunity for people to stop in and dabble. People may not have aspirations of becoming the next Picasso or Monet, but it gives them the chance to have fun with a group of friends exploring a new hobby together. 

paint partySplatz Canvas and Wine provides the instructor, the canvas, paint, easels and all the other art supplies needed to create a painting that is uniquely yours. Organize a girls night out party, birthday parties for children or adults, corporate parties or enjoy a different kind of date night at Splatz. The older set (over 21 years of age) can order up a glass of wine and along with munchies. 

There are millions of people worldwide, who find personal fulfillment in painting and other art either as a hobby or as a career. Splatz Canvas and Wine provides a space to discover what people find so satisfying in creating images to hang on the wall. 

Now you can create, socialize and paint at Splatz Canvas and Wine in the ‘Boat!

Visit us tomorrow on All Things Fulfilling, where sharing independent thoughts, words and views is all part of the business. This blog is brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


A “Tweek” to a Word Brings Response

January 17, 2013

On Tuesday we had the first meeting of the year for our meet-up group, We Write Steamboat (formerly SHe Writes Steamboat). A decision was made at the end of last year to change the name of our group to encourage more male authors/publishers to participate in this monthly networking opportunity for independent publishers in Steamboat and Routt County, Colorado. 

Guess what? A little “tweek” to a word, brought more male writers to the group. They outnumbered the women, this month. Although we have had male independent publishers attend since the inception of the group, almost two years ago, our goal for the year is to welcome even more. 

EreaderprintThe town of Steamboat Springs and the surrounding Routt County has many writers who are drawn to this area for its inspiring landscape, recreational opportunity and an alternative lifestyle. Creativity, artistry and innovation in this town draw many location neutral businesses. With the development of digital technology, business for some people can be accomplished from anywhere. Living in an urban hub like New York, because you are a publisher, is no longer necessary with the ability to send files and images electronically. The new option of e-book publishing requires no shipping or printing companies.

Feel free to look at the files for our authors we have set up on our We Write Steamboat Facebook page. http://on.fb.me/W7aadC. Check out the diversity of subjects, we Steamboat independent publishers have written about. Our group has award-winning authors with award winning books; some have books in print and others have e-book publications. Some are available in several formats. 

It is going to be a good year for our group, I can just feel it. We Write Steamboat has more publications that are in various stages of production that will be added to the files on Facebook as they are completed.

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Independence Day with Olympic Spirit

July 5, 2012

Where the spirit works with no hand, there is no art.” ~ Leonardo Di Vinci 

There is no such thing as being unpatriotic in this town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Yesterday, the town did itself proud to show off the Olympic spirit. The street was lined with locals and visitors to the area sporting red, white and blue clothing as they watched the 4th of July Parade. Stars and stripes were every where. 

Cutting up strawberries for the United Methodist Church fundraiser started my Independence Day morning. After the parade, while the church sold strawberry sundaes, The Tred of Pioneers Museum passed out Routt beer floats and all American hotdogs.   Next year, I must remember to get up a little bit earlier to take in breakfast in the park, offered up by the one of the many service clubs of Steamboat.  

After the parade, the action moved to Howelson Hill where medalists – Nordic combined Olympic skiers and aspiring young athletes compete in ski jumping. You don’t see that kind of activity in every town in America on a hot summer day. There are only a few select places that even have ski jumping facilities across the country. It is no wonder “Ski Town U.S.A.” is home to many Olympians who reside here year round. 

In early evening, many took in another customary Steamboat-style event – the Rodeo. Fireworks were not on the agenda this year, too dangerous with the draught conditions. But, the fireworks were replaced with another exceptional event at dusk. Event coordinators brought in a band that sells out at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in the Denver area every time they appear. The band 1964 really got the crowd going with their rendition of Beatles tunes. It was a wonderful sing-a-long evening. The band was so close in appearance and vocally to the original “Beatles” , it was amazing. A great choice of entertainment for an Independence Day celebration! 

All in all, yesterday was a fulfilling Independence Day in a town that exhibits it’s excellence day after day as a top-rated recreational resort area. Clearly, the reason the town is able to pull off their special events so successfully is the huge number of people who are willing to lend a hand to make wonderful things happen.

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Productive Publishing Projects

July 3, 2012

“What are you doing, these days?” My friends and family ask. We haven’t heard a peep out of you. 

A Day for Writers in Steamboat Springs is around just the corner – about ten days from now. Other literary and publishing “things to do” are at the top of my priority list also. I’m busy, happy and pre-occupied with enjoyable work, to be honest. 

I am rewarded when learning about each client’s new ventures, each as interesting and as diverse as the next. It’s a fulfilling existence. It’s why I am in this world of independent publishing. Out of ordinary projects and out of ordinary subjects. 

Some new independent publications will be introduced on this site in the very near future. I am looking forward to it! An agenda for an independent publishing event in August in Edwards,Colorado around the theme “The Book is Written, Now What?” also tops my mind. More details on this event will be posted in upcoming blogs. 

These are all the things a satisfying day represents to someone who is keeping up with this dynamic, growing industry of independent publishing. 

Today, I am making an executive decision. Tomorrow on All Things Fulfilling, this dedicated blog writer will be celebrating her independence by doing something a little bit different. Join us tomorrow on the 4th of July.

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Strings Music Festival’s Silver Anniversary

June 28, 2012

And all meet in singing, which braids together the different knowings into a wide and subtle music, the music of living.” ~Alison Croggon 

Yesterday’s blog mentioned the terrible wildfires and draught that have taken a toll on places in Colorado. Despite the climatic conditions, the Richard Schmid Art Auction in Larimer County will go on in September. Supporting the auction will help the victims of the wildfires. 

In Steamboat Springs,Colorado things couldn’t be better this summer for attracting outstanding artists to help celebrate a very special 25th year of the Strings Music Festival. “Strings” has grown from its home in a tent to one of the most beautiful pavilions for performance art in the State of Colorado. Each summer, it attracts top, quality talent and learning opportunities for children through their musical programming. 

So much has been accomplished in the first twenty-five years of “Strings” existance. Strong leadership and vision has helped this organization grow to include outreach events,  the ever popular “Home and Garden Tour”  and publishing their own line of beautiful cookbooks! There is much to celebrate.

 This silver anniversary of the music festival will bring artist Chris Botti back to Steamboat, along with k.d.lang and The Siss Boom Bang and country music star Lee Ann Womack. That is only the start of the line-up. 

On Tuesday evening, I ushered at the pavilion, and took in a fantastic master juggling act by the Gizmo Guys http://bit.ly/3qONHA that wowed the children and the adults in the audience. 

The classical music events for the summer along with “different tempo” performances brings to the stage more outstanding entertainment. To view the scheduling for the entire summer and to purchase tickets, please visit this link to the Strings Music Festival website www.stringsmusicfestival.com.  

It’s going to be a fantastic summer in Steamboat, I can already feel it!

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A Resource for Families

June 20, 2012

Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.”

 ~Dr. Haim Ginott 

Today, I will be featuring a book that was written by a Steamboat Springs, Colorado  author; it has relevance in every community in the United States and around the world. The issue that it confronts is not unique to people that reside in ski resort areas nor to people of any specific gender, creed or heritage.

Christian’s Story, written by Christie Appel RN LCNC, is about a disease called alcoholism. The book is unique because it gets right to the heart of matter from a twelve year’s old boy’s perspective. 

What does it feel like to be living in an alcoholic family? It is a confusing and life-altering experience that many children have to contend with. 

A difficult subject to speak with children about, isn’t it?  The Appel family decided to courageously “open-up” and publish a resource that will allow honest conversation between adult and child about some of the feelings that come with loving someone that has a problem and wanting a better life for that person. Christian’s Story” has been selected to be used as an educational tool, for children, by the National Association of Christian Recovery.

Ultimately, this children’s tale is a story of love, forgiveness, hope, faith. Pass the word on this book, if you know a child or family who could be helped by it.

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Film Friday: Selling Regional and Local Wares

June 1, 2012

Many small people, in many small places, do many small things, that can alter the face of the world.” ~ Unknown

Farmers Markets have been on my mind lately. That time of year is coming up. In many parts of the country where the climate is warm, opportunity for selling in outdoors venues rather than inside stores exists year round. 

This summer, our local Steamboat authors and independent publishers here in Routt County,Colorado will be selling their books  at  local events. We hope it will prove to be successful and worthwhile for booksellers and book buyers alike. 

 Shoppers at Farmer’s Markets and artisan fairs are typically interested in buying local, whether it is fresh produce or locally grown and preserved food stuffs. A wide range of arts and crafts are always available and usually a big hit.

Our localSteamboat authors have unique books, some of regional interest and with complimentary products , not found in Walmart and chain bookstores; a great way to expose local writing talent and publications. Since Steamboat is a resort that plays host to international tourists the opportunity to sell to a readers with diverse interests is right here in town. 

The other day, while browsing the shelves of DVDs at the Bud Werner Library, I came across a PBS Documentary called To Market, To Market, To Buy at Fat Pig. This 60 minute film focuses on the culture of farmer’s markets. Lexington Market, a place I remember from my childhood in Baltimore, is featured.Its success spans several hundred years, as it began in 1782. Amish-country farmers markets in Lancaster,Pennsylvania and the outdoors market in Santa Fe, New Mexico are all highlighted in this film along with other highly successful venues. Farmer’s Markets in all different parts of the country have specialty food items that are of regional interest – for example crab cakes reign supreme in Baltimore, Pennsylvania Dutch treats such as shoe fly pie, and all kinds of things hot and spicy in New Mexico. Many of the same buyers return each week, a result of the relationships they build with the vendors; a more fulfilling way to shop. The whole culture of food buying at Farmers Markets is different than buying in megastores. 

Hope to see you this summer, out and about shopping and boosting the local economy. Support the local authors who are doing their part in providing interesting publications and complimentary products, for people with more than ordinary reading tastes.

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EVVY Awards at the Lone Tree Art Center Tomorrow!

May 16, 2012

Feeling a part of that community is my greatest reward.” ~ Paul Parker

Last Saturday, I attended the last monthly meeting of the Colorado Independent Publishers Association meeting until September. It was well attended and members voted in the new Board of Directors for next year. Thank you to outgoing President Dan Miller, the Executive Director, Karen Reddick and the Board of  Directors for serving over the last year. Great strides were made over the past year by increasing membership and also in forming an e-book partnership with the Douglas County Libraries. Great job! 

Tomorrow night is the grand celebration of the year for the Colorado Independent Publishers Association.(CIPA).  The EVVY book awards will be held at the Lone Tree Art Center, in Lone Tree,Colorado. I am especially excited this year because we have finalists in the contest from our independent publishers group, SHe Writes Steamboat! Best of luck to the following authors: 

  • Trevor Boehm’s book Louie’s Saxophone submitted by Leslie & Ali Boehm
  • Karen Gilroy Discovering the Healer Within
  • Mary Kurtz At Home in the Elk River Valley
  • Dawn V. Obrecht, M.D.  Mission Possible

 A total of 190 books were submitted and judged for the EVVY Awards this year.All contestants all should be proud of their accomplishments of writing and publishing their books. From the list of finalists, it appears there will be some wonderful books added to the CIPA catalog;  titles that are unique and out of the ordinary – the beauty of independent publishing.

If you are someone who is considering independently publishing, I highly recommend that no matter what state you reside in that you research whether there is an independent publishing association that you can join. The benefit and support is well worth it.

Colorado is very fortunate to have one of the largest and most active independent publishing associations in the country.  To read about the benefits of becoming a member, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/w2f0gu.

I look forward to being at the EVVY awards tomorrow night. Next week, I hope to post some photographs of the event!

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Film Study: Dog and Human Relationships Worldwide

May 11, 2012

 “The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth will ever be.” ~ Konrad Lorenz

Last Friday, I wrote a blog about the top dog films, and it had a very nice following. If you missed it,  visit this link http://bit.ly/Kkywjs.

 In this town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado dogs rule! It is as if owning a dog is a sign of prestige. I love dogs and I’ve always had one in my life except for brief periods of time when I have been “between dogs,” like right now. 

I’ve often wondered whether people’s obsession with their pets (specifically canines) is unique to the United States. Do families in other countries place as much importance on their animals well being as their own? 

It has been said that people who own dogs live longer and are more personally fulfilled. A study in the correlation between countries, dog ownership or not, and average life expectancy would be fascinating. Don’t you think? It would make for a very interesting global film study (by way of documentary). I’d be up for traveling the world with the objective of gathering information on the importance and value people put on their dogs in various countries. Of course, we’d need the help of some independent film investors . Perhaps a film like that has already been produced, and I am not aware of it. 

I can hear all the cat owners, now! “What about us?” they are asking. We find just as much satisfaction and companionship with felines! 

If anyone decides to invest in this proposed venture, please let me know way in advance – before my ship comes in and before I grab a flight out. I need to find a travel companion. My constant canine companion of 17 years went to doggie heaven last November. I sure do miss the ole girl, and it could take me a while to decide on a new breed.

On second thought, I’d better travel without a dog. Sometimes dogs are too territorial and they fight with other pooches. We don’t need any more soured international relationships; there is enough fighting going on in this world as it is!  I am looking for personal fulfillment.

Is that not the cutest picture you’ve ever seen? It made my day!  Have a fulfilling Friday, everyone!  This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.