Novels, Memoirs, Poems, and More

From the child who says, “I’m going to write a book someday”, to internationally famous authors, writing in some form has existed for thousands of years. As with all creative efforts, writing can be a passing inclination, a job, a hobby, a passion - perhaps a combination. More than twenty years ago, local authors Marjorie Doughty and Lilia Morrison established the Lamplighters Writers Group within Homestead Center for the Arts (HCA).

Designed for novice through published authors, all genres were welcome. In addition to regular meetings, there would be different events such as readings for the Bea Peskoe Lunchtime Lecture Series, or participation in Homestead Main Street/HCA festivals in Losner Park. There are individual members who have published works and in 2015 the group published, “Alligator Tales”, a compilation of essays, poems, and short stories.

Currently, Lamplighters meet every Saturday 9:30-11:30 a.m., at the Homestead Cybrarium where members enjoy: Multiple fifteen-to twenty-minute writing sprints (prompt options upon request); Themed discussions of genres, writing challenges, and experiences; Light introductions of proposed and current writing projects; and friendly sharing of styles, genres, writing resources and inspirations. Tonya Howington, who works in poetry, fiction, and is writing a play, sums up the intent. “Spend some time in a supportive environment where you can sit back in quiet repose and brainstorm the plot of your next novel or outline a poetry chapbook! During the breaks we share our thoughts on writing, favorite strategies and challenges!”

The structure of this group is, “centered on providing a respectfully safe place for people of all ages and diverse backgrounds to come and write in a quiet space. Flexibility in the total amount of time dedicated for the writing sessions is needed to enjoy the full benefits of this group. New writers are welcome; however, please have a writing project in mind to work on or be open to suggested prompts. Everyone in attendance will be expected to join in the writing sessions. During discussions, participation from all present is encouraged. Time for each speaker may be monitored to allow everyone an opportunity to contribute to discussions.”

There is another option at the Cybrarium as Rachel Collazo, who handles adult programming, started the Inkwell Writers’ Workshop in February. They meet 5:30-7:30 p.m., the first and third Tuesday of each month. “We saw a shift in demographics and an opportunity to meet that need,” said Trevor Hunter, Cybrarium Director. Open to all genres, Collazo explained they begin the session with a writer’s prompt and work for about forty-five minutes. After that discussion, if individuals have projects in progress or planned, they may discuss those as well. She facilitates conversations that flow among the participants.

If you’ve been maintaining a journal/blog, always had an idea for a book/script, scribble lines for poems, or the family has been wondering about writing a memoir, drop into the sessions and see what they are like. One or both groups might be the right fit. The Homestead Cybrarium is located at 80 West Mowry Drive, next to the parking garage at Homestead Station. Tel: (305) 224-4410; https://cybrarium.org They are open seven days a week and have programs and activities for all age groups.

Homestead Center for the Arts (HCA) does not have a facility, but does meet monthly Sept-June at the Homestead Woman’s Club, and holds different events throughout the year. In addition to the Lamplighters, there are groups for interests such as art, history, orchids, theater, and more. See https://homestead centerforthearts.com or find them on Facebook.