Happy Holidays!
     Has it really been a year ago that I wrote my very first presidential column? And now, I'm writing my final one as we have a changing of the guard.
     As I look back to that very first column, written on the edge of the new year, 1999, I remember the goals I set for myself as writer. It's been a year of highs and lows for me, but, happily, I can say I met each of my three main goals. And even better, I was blessed with some nice surprises along the way, including the Golden Heart nomination and the sale of my first novella.
     Now, as the next millenium stretches on the horizon, I wonder what the future holds for each of us as people and as writers. Life is a mystery. A wonderous adventure that unfolds second upon second, and I can't wait to step into the year 2000. I'm already setting some new goals.
     It's been my honor and privilege to serve as your president for 1999, and I thank you for that opportunity. I trust the incoming officers will serve you well.
     Blessings (and don't miss the party!)

What are feature stories?
1. Feature stories are more like nonfiction short stories than news stories.
2. In a feature story - the immediacy of the event is secondary.
3. Human interest, atmosphere, emotion, irony and humor replace news values.
4. Feature stories have a beginning, middle, and an end.

     When other people find out I'm a writer, most of them ask, "What do you write?" more constructive question might be, "What kind of writer are you?" There are all kinds of books to write, yet we all run out of words or crash headlong into writer's block at times. I believe it's because we're struggling against ourselves. For that reason, I've devised a test to help you determine your proper niche as a writer.

    Well, not really, but I have learned a lot while editing the newsletter.  Though it is a daunting, time-consuming, often frustrating endeavor, editing Paw Prints gave me back ten fold what I put into it.
     I can't even begin telling you all the interesting tidbits of writing information I've picked up over the last two years that I never got to share in Paw Prints.  I've learned about copyright, editing, publishing, e-books, multi-genres, royalties, collaborating, freelancing, etc.  How is this beneficial?  Well, writing is an isolated career.  We often get focused on our particular niche and don't explore other options out there.  In my efforts to provide a variety of information to all the writers in the club, I've had to read and discover much about writing I never would have on my own.  This has opened up potential paths for the future to me.
     Though I'd surfed the 'net before taking on Paw Prints, nothing I did previously compares to the intense surfing I've done in the last two years.  My "bookmark" file overflows with writing links.  I also learned how to design and upload web pages to the 'net thanks to this job.  I'm so proud of PAWS' web site, and I would never have attempted such a thing, in all likelihood, except through the newsletter.
     Editing Paw Prints has also let me feel a direct connection to all club members because I'm always trying to meet the needs of everyone.  Since I've been teaching on Monday nights, I haven't been able to attend meetings, but the newsletter has let me still be a part of the club.  I will perhaps miss that the most.
     I've become a better desktop publisher since I took over.  When I look back at those first issues, I can hardly credit all that I've learned about Word '97 and producing a document.  This is a skill that I can use in a variety of situations.
     Lastly, Paw Prints has kept me writing every month.  When life gets hectic and I can't force myself to work on my manuscript, I still know that I will be doing something writing related each month.
     I know that many of you might be interested in this job but are hesitant to volunteer because it seems so difficult.  Don't let your inexperience keep you from signing on next year.  Though Paw Prints does require a time investment, I promise you that you'll receive more joy from producing the newsletter than sorrow.  If you are interested in being a part of this great tradition, I encourage you to write articles.  They can be about grammar, genres, or the writing life.  Send them to the new editor - she'll be happy to have club members helping her put PAWS' greatest PR tool together.  I know I loved it when people sent me information and columns.
     So, here it ends for me.  Next month, Paw Prints will look and feel differently.  It will take on the personality and vision of the new editor.  Though I will miss the newsletter that I crafted, I know I leave it in caring hands.  I know that as you did for me, you will give her your encouragement and support.  I can't tell you how wonderful it is to hear positive feedback, so don't be shy.  Let her know what you think.  Just a "Hey, that article on weaving scene and sequel was just what I needed" lets us know we're on the right track.

     Here is a quick exercise to help you explore your protagonist's relationship with the setting. Just free-write on the questions. Look for conflict and character-building opportunities. Also look for possible events and places where events might take place. See if you can make your setting more than just a backdrop for your dramatic events. Think instead of your plot and protagonist interacting with the environment. I give an example exercise in italics.