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Scottsdale Society of Women Writers reaches 17th year

Posted 9/28/22

It’s still about the Zoom calls for the monthly speaker meeting of the Scottsdale Society of Women Writers. SSWW will celebrate 17 years at their September meeting next week.

To survive the …

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Scottsdale Society of Women Writers reaches 17th year

Posted

It’s still about the Zoom calls for the monthly speaker meeting of the Scottsdale Society of Women Writers. SSWW will celebrate 17 years at their September meeting next week.

To survive the pandemic, the group has been meeting online for two and a half years, a press release stated. The 70 women membership gathers to hear a professional speaker at these inspiring and informational meetings to stay connected and strengthen their group during these trying times.

The women write in all genres and are at various levels of success. Half of the women are published, independently or with an agent. They are all serious about their goals. Many have full-time careers or other demands, but writing is a priority in their lives. They vary in age from 25 to 75. SSWW has pivoted during the pandemic to an even more impressive group by coming together and supporting each other online. Many of the current members have joined during the pandemic and continue to enjoy the concept until things change to go in-house in January.

“You can feel the energy and enthusiasm, and see the camaraderie and support, when the women greet each other before the online meeting,” Patricia L. Brooks, president and founder, said in the release. “The meeting is open to women committed to their craft. We are a writing networking group for women while supporting our need to write. The Zoom meetings are a special form of encouragement that facilitate meaningful connections. It’s more of a journey in quality relationships and growth than just a chance to connect.”

Brooks has lived in the Valley for 46 years and relies on her many business and personal contacts to help her maintain a steady flow of dynamic speakers. These professionals are diverse, presenting their expertise on topics ranging from writing fiction or nonfiction to poetry and movie scripts, as well as publishing and marketing books. All speakers come highly recommended by the many women in her sphere of influence.

Annual dues are $50 and membership benefits include information from Brooks about writing events in Arizona and nearby states, such as conferences and workshops. These aspiring or award-winning women authors are also alerted to festivals where they can participate, as well as book signings by the group’s members. A monthly newsletter is provided, as well as a directory of the membership.

“The generosity of these women has contributed to the SSWW survival for 17 years,” Brooks said in the release. “Everyone cares about everyone else and wants each other to succeed. The group members are unselfish in nature. It is beautiful to watch. Together we tap into a special energy to find more meaning in our writing life.”

The group meets online the last Wednesday night of the month at 6 p.m. Each member is asked monthly to buy a copy of the speaker’s book, or a member’s book to pay it forward. Currently, there is no cost for these meetings. Guests are allowed two visits before joining is encouraged. The meetings will remain on Zoom until January 2023. The location and dinner price will be announced at that time. RSVP’s are always required in advance and a press release is available upon request.

For more information about SSWW or Brooks, contact patricia@plbrooks.com or text/call 480-250-5556.