Christian writers blanket Texas
Group dates back to first meeting in 1990

Since Maxine E. Holder came to East Texas to live in 1995, her Christian writers chapters have increased to seven. Holder founded Inspirational Writers Alive! (IWA!) back in 1990, having the first meeting in her Pasadena home with 15 in attendance. It wasn't long before Mrs. Holder connected with 49 state writing clubs. Mrs. Holder spoke at gatherings around Houston and enlisted several new chapters. It became evident that writers in Amarillo needed IWA! as well. By 1995 there were chapters in Baytown, Amarillo, Humble, and First Baptist Church in Houston, as well as Jacksonville. Recently Port Neches and Kileen joined IWA!

IWA! is open to Christian writers from all denominations. Subjects written by members include: daily devotions, curriculum for children, Bible studies, inspirational poetry, articles and short stories for magazines with an inspiring touch, books about writing, scriptwriting for churches and Christian theater, books that reach the reader for Christ (both secular and Christian fields) and greeting cards. One of the most successful writers from East Texas is Debra White Smith, a best-selling author who helped found the East Texas Chapter in '95 in Jacksonville.

Other noted authors in IWA! are DiAnn Mills, Janice Thompson, Freida Chrisman, Patsy Rae Dawson, Helen Luecke, and Anita Higman. Numerous poets throughout the organization have won top poetry awards. Doris Crandall, wellknown Guideposts writer, has written stories and cards for many years.

Still some of the members produce newsletters for their church, or write daily in a spiritual or prayer journal. IWA! encourages its members to purchase books on writing and magazines that will help them to succeed in a writing career.

Currently IWA! has an open writing competition going on. The seven categories include, short story (fiction), short story (children/teens), article (nonfiction), poetry, devotional, drama, and book proposal. Winners of first, second and third place receive a cash prize and all winners including honorable mentions receive a certificate. Should someone want to enter the contest they may contact Martha Rogers at marthalrogers@ sbcglobal.net with their mailing information.

IWA! sponsors numerous events throughout the year. Amarillo's chapter has a one day conference in April. Helen Luecke may be contacted for further information at hcluecke@ sbcglobal.net. Coming up Aug. 4 is the 16th annual Texas Christian Writers Conference in Houston at First Baptist Church on Katy Freeeway.

The conference includes well known authors, publicists, and free samples and guidelines from various publishers. When brochures are ready one may also receive a copy by sending mailing information by e-mail to Mrs. Rogers. This years keynote speaker will be best selling author DiAnn Mills.

The East Texas chapter hopes to have their one-day seminar in May at Tyler. Public announcements will be made when it is arranged.

Persons interested in being a writer may contact Mrs. Holder at (903)795-3986. "Writers from beginners to best-selling authors are ready to give help where it's needed. We specifically use an exclamation mark in our title because we are excited about our 'writing ministry' -- for the Lord," said Mrs. Holder.