The October meeting of the Northeastern Wisconsin Authors Circle was led by NEWAC founder Kathleen Marsh, author of "Sunrise Sunset," "The Portly Princess of Thynneland," and "My Mother Kept a Scrapbook: the True Story of a WWII POW" at the Book Worm Bookstore in Appleton on Oct. 20.
In order to better meet the needs of its members, the group broke into two sessions. Young writers ages 8-13 met at 5 p.m. and authors high school age and up met at 7 p.m.
Members brought their work to be critiqued. One of the young writers shared her poem called "Time." It was very well received by members of the group who offered positive and constructive feedback. During the second session, two prospective authors shared excerpts of their work and that also drew an enthusiastic and supportive reaction.
Then it was on to the topic of the evening's discussion: "The Editing Process Is Not Optional." Marsh and guest author Heather Sprangers, who collaborated with Marsh on "Sunrise Sunset," offered perspective on their own experience in avoiding those "killer errors" that creep into a work undetected by even the most careful reader.
"From personal experience, I always recommend an author, even the lucky ones who pull down a big publishing house contract, spend the money to get that final proofreading edit. One glaring error can destroy a non-fiction writer's credibility, and even a few typos or errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar and usage can doom the most otherwise excellent work," advised Sprangers.
The next meeting of NEWAC is scheduled for Dec. 1, with sessions at 5 and 7 p.m. The meeting topic is "publishing pitfalls: how to get published without getting fleeced." Seating is limited, so call Jane at the Bookworm 731-9800 to reserve a spot.
Interested readers can find copies and autographed gift sets of Marsh's books at both the Book Worm and at Initial Impressions in Kaukauna.

flowers in along with the pet in addition to the numbered identification disk so that the owner is assured of their pet's cremated remains.  The owner then receives the remains to place in a selected urn and a certificate with their personalized inscription as a keepsake.
A group cremation involves having a family pet cremated along with other pets that have passed during that same time period.  Once the cremation is over, the remains are scattered in the gardens of Forrest Run. All of the pet owners have made arrangements and are in full agreement of this type of burial for their pet.  The choice is always up to the family. 
Fahrenkrug allows family members to have visitations, play music, read letters or poems during the service for their pet.  Some have had their ministers give blessings or do readings prior to the burial services.
"We are very accommodating; we are open to suggestions and want to make everyone feel warm and comfortable during this family time."
Fahrenkrug's recommendations to families are twofold: Remember that the best time to make these decisions is not in the time of turmoil of initial grief, but while your pet is happy and healthy; and, look around at the facilities and services available to you in the area, ask questions about the process, and ask to view the grounds prior to making a decision for this special family need.
"I'm happy to give a tour and speak to visitors anytime.  I encourage you to come and see how beautiful and peaceful it is out here," he said.
For more information go to www.forrestrunpetcemetery.com