BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//California Writers Club, Mt Diablo Branch - ECPv6.18.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:California Writers Club, Mt Diablo Branch X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for California Writers Club, Mt Diablo Branch REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20270314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20271107T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261114T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261114T120000 DTSTAMP:20261014T154101Z CREATED:20261012T201315Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T154101Z UID:70154-1794650400-1794657600@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:November General Meeting featuring Gideon Asche\, Author\, Columnist\, Historian DESCRIPTION:This meeting is at the Pleasant Hill Community Center on Civic Drive.\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGideon Asche is a writer with an amazing story to tell. In addition to working as a clandestine intelligence officer\, (a spy!)\, during the Cold War\, he worked for Radio Free Europe rewriting scripts for English learning programs for broadcasts behind the Iron Curtain. He has worked in several highly secret and dangerous government positions. He wrote unofficially about some experiences and published in High Times and other publications\, after which he was visited by unwelcome government investigators. His publisher canceled his first book because of Government restrictions. It took another 2 years to get clearance to publish JINNIK the Asset\, A Cold War Memory. He is currently working on a historical novel\, Hummingbird\, and it too will require clearance by the State Department. \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nGeneral Meeting Part 1\n\n\n\n\nMember Book Sale\, 10:00 – 10:30(Please come early to set up your spot)\n\n\n\n3-Minute Flash Fiction\, 10:30 – 10:45\n\n\n\nBusiness Meeting\, 10:45 – 11:00\n\n\n\n\nCoffee\, tea\, fruit\, and pastries included. \n\n\n\nGeneral Meeting Part 2 \n\n\n\nOur Featured Speaker: Gideon Asche\, 11:00 – 12:00 \nCome and listen to this fascinating writer. Learn about the dual challenge of holding down an unusual full-time job while being a writer. You will learn about the challenges and restrictions of memoir and novel writing with the State Department looking over your shoulder. \n\n\n\nGeneral Meeting Part 3\n\n\n\nStay after the meeting until 1:30 for optional events. Attendance at Parts 1 and 2 is required to participate in optional activities. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nSuggested activities: \n\n Sell more books! Restricted to this meeting only.\n Critique groups\n Hush & write group\n Start a discussion on a particular topic of writing\n Play Scrabble (bring your own game board)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClick Here to Register URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/november-general-meeting-featuring-gideon-asche-author-columnist-historian/ LOCATION:Pleasant Hill Community Center\, 320 Civic Drive\, Pleasant Hill\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Branch Meetings and Workshops ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Gideon-Asche.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261114T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261114T222000 DTSTAMP:20261013T213058Z CREATED:20261013T213052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261013T213058Z UID:70174-1794648600-1794694800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Member Book Sale at November Meeting DESCRIPTION:Members Only: Sell Your Books at Our November Meeting!\n\n\n\nWe spend a lot of time at our meetings talking and learning about writing. But we don’t always connect that to the actual books and stories our members are publishing. Here is an opportunity to find out what your co-members have on offer and to show your own works. \n\n\n\nCome early to the meeting (about 9:15 – 9:30) and set up shop on the tables dedicated for selling. Bring swag and marketing materials to hand out. Have a fun time shopping and socializing as you explore books by your fellow Mt. Diablo writers. Just in time for gift-giving season! \n\n\n\nBook sales end at 10:20\, when we must clean up to allow time for the business meeting and our featured speaker.  Book sales may resume if desired during the optional activities after the meeting. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/member-book-sale-at-november-meeting/ LOCATION:Pleasant Hill Community Center\, 320 Civic Drive\, Pleasant Hill\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Branch Meetings and Workshops ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Members-sell-their-books-scaled.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261031T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261031T164500 DTSTAMP:20261005T022251Z CREATED:20261005T022245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T022251Z UID:70117-1793455200-1793465100@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Art Embraces Words: Halloween Program & Call for Writers and Artists DESCRIPTION:Join the Halloween celebration on October 31—or become part of the program by submitting your writing or artwork by October 16!\n\n\n\nCelebrate Halloween with Art Embraces Words at the Lafayette Library! Writers and artists are invited to share their work as part of this special Halloween program\, featuring creative presentations\, a cosplay/costume contest with prizes\, and a reception. Interested in presenting? Writers and artists can apply by October 16 at 11:59 PM. Then\, join us on Saturday\, October 31\, from 2:00–3:30 PM\, with the reception and costume judging following from 3:30–4:45 PM. Come dressed as your favorite literary\, superhero\, or artistic character and enjoy an afternoon where art and words come together! \n\n\n\nFor writers and artists interested in participating: \n\n\n\n\nSubmit your work to Art Embraces Words\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLearn more about how to submit your work below: URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/art-embraces-words-halloween-program-call-for-writers-and-artists/ LOCATION:Lafayette Library Arts & Science Room\, 3941 Mt. Diablo Blvd.\, Lafayette\, California CATEGORIES:Joint Community Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Halloween-AEW-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261028T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261028T133000 DTSTAMP:20260930T161211Z CREATED:20260930T161202Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260930T161211Z UID:70112-1793188800-1793194200@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Writers Connection DESCRIPTION:Writers Connection is a social place where like-minded people\, hapless authors\, and creative geniuses can come together and chat about the one thing they all have in common: the compulsion to write. It is open to any CWC member\, published or not\, interested in a freewheeling\, nonjudgmental\, welcoming\, and relaxed environment. Content will include a potpourri of any writing or associated topics: news items\, agents\, publishers\, bouquets & brickbats. Membership is open-ended\, limited only by space\, and people may come and go as they please. Short readings are welcome.  Please Register so we can have the venue prepare a large enough table for us – Food and Beverages are encouraged and are on your own dime! Delicious!! \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Writers Connection\n \n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/writers-connection-3/ LOCATION:Chicken Pie Shop\, 1251 Arroyo Way\, Walnut Creek\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/New-Logo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261016T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261016T150000 DTSTAMP:20261018T191438Z CREATED:20260922T215554Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T191438Z UID:70093-1792152000-1792162800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:What’s Your Story Reading Group DESCRIPTION:This meeting is at a different location: Capital One Cafe\, 1139 South Main St.\, Walnut Creek\n\n\n\nTo accommodate the interests of those who write stories longer than 2\,500 words\, we will alternate the format of the monthly meetings. Every other month\, the meeting will be devoted to stories of 5\,000 words in length. These longer-story meetings will last three hours instead of the usual two. In October\, we will hold the first meeting for longer stories.That next meeting will be on Friday\, October 16\, at noon\, at the Capital One Café (1139 South Main Street\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94596)\, in Community Room 2\, on the second floor. Parking is free for the first 3 hours in nearby lots\, including the multi-story structure at the corner of Main and Botelho.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage by freepik\n\n\n\nMeetings are on the 3rd Friday of each month.\n\n\n\nIf you are reading:\n\n\n\n\nTime yourself beforehand. Practice! A 2\,500 word story will typically take 10/12 mins to read. The short story 15-minute limit is firm.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words have a time limit of 30 minutes.\n\n\n\nWe will use a microphone.\n\n\n\nRobert or Raquel will introduce each reader. He/she will read the title and the genre.\n\n\n\nFeedback\, if requested\, will be given. Note: feedback is part of your allotted minutes. Therefore\, your reading time should be shortened.\n\n\n\nThe next reader will be introduced etc.\n\n\n\nIf time permits\, we’ll have final questions.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCome\, read\, and enjoy listening at CWC Mt. Diablo’s Short Story Reading Group!\n\n\n\nTo accommodate the interests of those who write stories longer than 2\,500 words\, we will alternate the format of the monthly meetings. Every other month\, the meeting will be devoted to stories of 5\,000 words in length. These longer-story meetings will last three hours instead of the usual two. \n\n\n\nThe How \n\n\n\n\nWe will maintain a list of authors who want to read\, along with the title/genre of their stories.\n\n\n\nA small committee will select the readers for each month. You will know well in advance when it is your turn to read.\n\n\n\nStories up to 2\,500 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece using the form below.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece AND upload the story itself in pdf\, using the form below.\n\n\n\nNew stories or a story already published are welcome.\n\n\n\nYou can read a chapter from a book if it is a free-standing story and meets the time limit. \n\n\n\nYou may return to this form to submit other titles.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: What’s Your (Short)Story?\n \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n I want to:(Required)\n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 2\,500 words.\n \n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 5\,000 words. The story is attached below.\n \n \n RSVP for the next meeting.\n Story Title (2500 words)Story Title (5000 words)Story GenreUpload your storyAccepted file types: pdf\, docx\, doc\, Max. file size: 128 MB. Questions or problems with the registration process?\nContact Marlene at webmaster@cwcmtdiablo.org.We do not share your personal data with anyone. See our Privacy Policy.\n Submit \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/whats-your-story-reading-group-3/ LOCATION:Capital One Café\, 1139 South Main Street\, Walnut Creek\, California\, 94596\, United States CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Author-Panel-2-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261014T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261014T200000 DTSTAMP:20260922T212757Z CREATED:20260922T212720Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T212757Z UID:70091-1792004400-1792008000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Open Mic on Zoom DESCRIPTION:Sign up to read a five-minute segment from something you’ve written. It can be a work-in-progress\, something already published\, or that sheaf of poems you hid under the bed last year. Share it with writers and readers at our 90-minute Read Fest! \n\n\n\nNot ready to read your work to a crowd? That’s okay\, we need an audience\, too. Come and hear what others have to say. \n\n\n\nWhen you register\, let us know if you want to be a reader. The first seven people to sign-up will be given a slot to read for five minutes. \n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for Open Mic Night!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n If we have more than seven requests to read\, we’ll start the list for the next event. \n\n\n\nWe’ll have time for discussion\, but please remember\, this is not a critique session! Talk about what you liked\, not what the author can do better. \n\n\n\nThis event is open to the public. Bring your friends! \n\n\n\nRegister to receive your Zoom link to join. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Open Mic Events\n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/open-mic-on-zoom-4/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Microphone.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T133000 DTSTAMP:20260915T003527Z CREATED:20260901T173216Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T003527Z UID:69852-1791626400-1791639000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:The Writer’s Journey: Moving Beyond the Draft\, a Mt. Diablo Workshop with Gala Russ DESCRIPTION:Stuck in Revision? Not sure what your manuscript needs next?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA workshop series presented by CWC Mt. Diablo\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us in October for a hands-on workshop led by author and book coach\, Gala Russ. Gala will focus on strengthening scenes\, identifying weak spots\, and developing a revision strategy that works.\n\n\n\nYou’ll learn how to: \n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nEvaluate scenes with purpose\n\n\n\n\n \n\nSpot missing elements in your story\n\n\n\n\n \n\nMove beyond endless editing\n\n\n\n\n \n\nCreate a roadmap for revision\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBecause finishing a draft isn’t the end of the writing journey. It’s where the real work begins. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\n\n\n\n9:30 AM – Registration & socializing \n\n\n\n10:00 AM – Part 1 Macro Editing + Logline (50 min)  \n\n\n\n10:50 AM – Break \n\n\n\n11:00 AM – Part 2 Scene Structure That Actually Works (1 hr) \n\n\n\n12:00 PM – Lunch break*\n\n\n\n12:30 PM – Part 3 Applied Editing + Coaching (1 hr) \n\n\n\n1:30 PM – Workshop ends \n\n\n\n\n*Bring your own lunch. We will provide coffee\, fruit\, and pastries. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSave the Date! October 10\, 2026\, 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.**\n\n\n\n**This is the day of our regular monthly meeting \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocation\n\n\n\nPleasant Hill Senior Center233 Gregory Lane\, Pleasant Hill \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCost\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEARLY BIRD SPECIAL!SAVE $5.00! \n\n\n\n\n\nRegister between September 15 and October 3\, and the cost is:\n\n\n\n\n\nMembers: $35 \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests: $40 \n\n\n\n\n\nRegister after October 3\, the cost is:\n\n\n\n\n\nMembers: $40 \n\n\n\n\n\nGuests: $45 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGALA RUSSRomance Author\, Book Coach\, and Publishing Strategistgalarussauthor@gmail.comgalarussauthor.com \n\n\n\nGala Russ is a multi-published romance author\, book coach\, and publishing strategist who helps writers move from overwhelm to clarity. She works with: \n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nBrand-new writers to show them that starting (and finishing) a book is possible and what steps lead from a book idea to a finished draft\n\n\n\n\n \n\nGenre authors who want to strengthen romantic subplots so readers root for the couple\n\n\n\n\n \n\nDraft finishers who need a clear roadmap for editing and publishing: traditional or indie\n\n\n\n\n \n\nAll writers to market their books in a way that complements their interests and budgets\n\n\n\n\n \n\nWriters ready to indie-publish their work\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn the past four years\, Gala has published nine books—from young adult to adult\, closed-door to wide-open door—including two trilogies. She’s currently writing a new urban-fantasy series. A repeat presenter at national events\, she has spoken at Daniel David Wallace’s Teachers of Fiction and Escape the Plot Forest summits and taught a two-hour Romancing the Subplot workshop for Beth Barany’s speculative-fiction community. Her teaching blends approachable guidance with no-nonsense strategy. Having published her first book without understanding comps\, tropes\, story structure\, editing timelines\, querying\, or marketing\, she knows how isolating the path to figuring all those out alone can feel. Now she helps writers skip years of trial and error with clear frameworks and actionable\, tailored advice aligning with open web initiatives. \n\n\n\n\nRegistration opens Sept. 14. Click here to register. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/the-writers-journey-moving-beyond-the-draft-a-mt-diablo-workshop-with-gala-russ/ LOCATION:Pleasant Hill Senior Center\, 233 Gregory Lane\, Pleasant Hill\, California\, 94523\, United States CATEGORIES:Branch Meetings and Workshops ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Copy-of-The-Writers-Journey-logo-4-x-4-in.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261009T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261009T163000 DTSTAMP:20260916T175952Z CREATED:20260916T175940Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T175952Z UID:70088-1791558000-1791563400@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Mt. Diablo Board Meeting on Zoom DESCRIPTION:All members are welcome to attend Board Meetings as non-participating guests (but don’t be surprised if we ask for your impressions and ideas). This is YOUR club. We hope you are interested in how we run it.If you’d like to attend\, contact President Barry Hampshire at president@cwcmtdiablo.org. He will send you the link to join on Zoom. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/mt-diablo-board-meeting-on-zoom-3/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Board Meeting ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Zoom.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261006T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261006T193000 DTSTAMP:20260922T222831Z CREATED:20260922T222827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T222831Z UID:70097-1791309600-1791315000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Four-Part Writing Series with Local Authors: Getting Started and Building a Writing Habit DESCRIPTION:Looking for inspiration to start—or strengthen—your writing practice? Join a panel of local authors at the Danville Library for Part 1 of a four-part writing series\, Getting Started and Building a Writing Habit. \n\n\n\nModerated by author and culinary educator S.Q. Orpin\, the evening will feature a conversational discussion with local authors Marianne Lonsdale (When the Road Curves)\, Bruce Lewis (Angel of Mercy)\, Jill Hedgecock (Rhino in the Room)\, and Anindita (Dita) Basu (Shadowbirds). \n\n\n\nAttendees will have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A\, meet the authors following the discussion\, and purchase signed books. \n\n\n\nTuesday\, October 66:00–7:30 p.m.Mt. Diablo Room\, Danville Library400 Front Street\, Danville\, CA 94526 \n\n\n\nThe series continues with sessions on character and building a writing habit\, plot/structure/pacing\, and the editing and revision process in November\, December\, and January. \n\n\n\nDAN-Writing Series-flyerDownload\n\n\n\nWhether you’re beginning a new project or looking for fresh motivation\, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from local writers and connect with the writing community. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/four-part-writing-series-with-local-authors-getting-started-and-building-a-writing-habit/ LOCATION:Danville Library\, 400 Front Street\, Danville\, California\, 94526\, United States CATEGORIES:Joint Community Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Author-panel-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260930T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260930T133000 DTSTAMP:20260831T032622Z CREATED:20260831T032614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T032622Z UID:70034-1790769600-1790775000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Writers Connection DESCRIPTION:Writers Connection is a social place where like-minded people\, hapless authors\, and creative geniuses can come together and chat about the one thing they all have in common: the compulsion to write. It is open to any CWC member\, published or not\, interested in a freewheeling\, nonjudgmental\, welcoming\, and relaxed environment. Content will include a potpourri of any writing or associated topics: news items\, agents\, publishers\, bouquets & brickbats. Membership is open-ended\, limited only by space\, and people may come and go as they please. Short readings are welcome.  Please Register so we can have the venue prepare a large enough table for us – Food and Beverages are encouraged and are on your own dime! Delicious!! \n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Writers Connection\n \n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/writers-connection/ LOCATION:Chicken Pie Shop\, 1251 Arroyo Way\, Walnut Creek\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/New-Logo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260918T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260918T140000 DTSTAMP:20260823T033650Z CREATED:20260823T033639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260823T033650Z UID:70009-1789732800-1789740000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:What’s Your Story Reading Group DESCRIPTION:Image by freepik\n\n\n\nMeetings are on the 3rd Friday of each month.\n\n\n\nIf you are reading:\n\n\n\n\nTime yourself beforehand. Practice! A 2\,500 word story will typically take 10/12 mins to read. The short story 15-minute limit is firm.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words have a time limit of 30 minutes.\n\n\n\nWe will use a microphone.\n\n\n\nRobert or Raquel will introduce each reader. He/she will read the title and the genre.\n\n\n\nFeedback\, if requested\, will be given. Note: feedback is part of your allotted minutes. Therefore\, your reading time should be shortened.\n\n\n\nThe next reader will be introduced etc.\n\n\n\nIf time permits\, we’ll have final questions.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCome\, read\, and enjoy listening at CWC Mt. Diablo’s Short Story Reading Group!\n\n\n\nTo accommodate the interests of those who write stories longer than 2\,500 words\, we will alternate the format of the monthly meetings. Every other month\, the meeting will be devoted to stories of 5\,000 words in length. These longer-story meetings will last three hours instead of the usual two. \n\n\n\nThe How \n\n\n\n\nWe will maintain a list of authors who want to read\, along with the title/genre of their stories.\n\n\n\nA small committee will select the readers for each month. You will know well in advance when it is your turn to read.\n\n\n\nStories up to 2\,500 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece using the form below.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece AND upload the story itself in pdf\, using the form below.\n\n\n\nNew stories or a story already published are welcome.\n\n\n\nYou can read a chapter from a book if it is a free-standing story and meets the time limit. \n\n\n\nYou may return to this form to submit other titles.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: What’s Your (Short)Story?\n \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n I want to:(Required)\n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 2\,500 words.\n \n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 5\,000 words. The story is attached below.\n \n \n RSVP for the next meeting.\n Story Title (2500 words)Story Title (5000 words)Story GenreUpload your storyAccepted file types: pdf\, docx\, doc\, Max. file size: 128 MB. Questions or problems with the registration process?\nContact Marlene at webmaster@cwcmtdiablo.org.We do not share your personal data with anyone. See our Privacy Policy.\n Submit \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/whats-your-story-reading-group-2/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Author-Panel-2-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260916T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260916T200000 DTSTAMP:20260818T234105Z CREATED:20260818T234058Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T234105Z UID:70006-1789585200-1789588800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Open Mic on Zoom DESCRIPTION:Sign up to read a five-minute segment from something you’ve written. It can be a work-in-progress\, something already published\, or that sheaf of poems you hid under the bed last year. Share it with writers and readers at our 90-minute Read Fest! \n\n\n\nNot ready to read your work to a crowd? That’s okay\, we need an audience\, too. Come and hear what others have to say. \n\n\n\nWhen you register\, let us know if you want to be a reader. The first seven people to sign-up will be given a slot to read for five minutes. \n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for Open Mic Night!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n If we have more than seven requests to read\, we’ll start the list for the next event. \n\n\n\nWe’ll have time for discussion\, but please remember\, this is not a critique session! Talk about what you liked\, not what the author can do better. \n\n\n\nThis event is open to the public. Bring your friends! \n\n\n\nRegister to receive your Zoom link to join. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Open Mic Events\n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/open-mic-on-zoom-3/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Microphone.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260913T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260913T160000 DTSTAMP:20260807T034820Z CREATED:20260805T074544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260807T034820Z UID:69935-1789308000-1789315200@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Art Embraces Poetry: Ekphrasis Poetry From Original Art DESCRIPTION:Dear Writers\,Join Lamorinda Arts Council\, California Writers Club Mt Diablo Branch\, and Youth Ambassador Program Leaders Charlie Rivera-Gu and Sharanya Roy on Sunday September 13\, 2:00 pm\, at the Town Hall Theatre Main Stage\, 3535 School St.\, Lafayette\, for the program. \n\n\n\n\nLearn More Here\n\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Elana O’Loskey at elanao@mac.com or 925.359.9940 URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/art-embraces-poetry-ekphrasis-poetry-from-original-art/ LOCATION:Town Hall Theater\, 3535 School St\, Lafayette\, California\, 94549\, United States CATEGORIES:Non-CWC Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/image3.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260912T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260912T160000 DTSTAMP:20260831T034956Z CREATED:20260831T034951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T034956Z UID:70036-1789221600-1789228800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Book Signing with AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia at Barnes & Noble DESCRIPTION:Join author AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia for a book signing on Saturday\, September 12\, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Barnes & Noble in Walnut Creek. Stop by to meet the author\, have your books signed\, and celebrate the Drifters Realm series. We hope to see you there! URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/book-signing-with-annemarie-mazotti-gouveia-at-barnes-noble/ LOCATION:Barnes & Noble\, 1192 Locust St.\, Walnut Creek\, California CATEGORIES:Member Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/AnneMarie_Mazotti_Gouveia_CWC.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia":MAILTO:annemarie.gouveia@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260912T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260912T120000 DTSTAMP:20260718T201253Z CREATED:20260712T155442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260718T201253Z UID:69848-1789207200-1789214400@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:September 2026 General Meeting with Diane Frank\, Poetry as the Language of the Soul  DESCRIPTION:Location Alert! This meeting is at the Pleasant Hill Community Center.\n\n\n\n\nStuck in Revision? Not sure what your manuscript needs next?\n \nA workshop series presented by CWC Mt. Diablo\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us in October for a hands-on workshop led by author and book coach\, Gala Russ. Gala will focus on strengthening scenes\, identifying weak spots\, and developing a revision strategy that works.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAttendees will be shown how to:\n\n\n\nEvaluate scenes with purpose\n\n\n\nSpot missing elements in your story\n\n\n\nMove beyond endless editing\n\n\n\nCreate a roadmap for revision\n\n\n\n\nBecause finishing a draft isn’t the end of the writing journey.\nIt’s where the real work begins. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\n\n\n9:30 AM – Registration & socializing \n\n\n\n10:00 AM – Part 1 Macro Editing + Logline (50 min)  \n\n\n\n10:50 AM – Break \n\n\n\n11:00 AM – Part 2 Scene Structure That Actually Works (1 hr) \n\n\n\n12:00 PM – Lunch break*\n\n\n\n12:30 PM – Part 3 Applied Editing + Coaching (1 hr) \n\n\n\n1:30 PM – Workshop ends \n\n\n\n\n*Bring your own lunch. We will provide coffee\, fruit\, and pastries. \n\n\nCost\n\n\nMembers: $40.00Guests: $45.00 \n\n\n\n\nEarly Bird Special for Members!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister by Oct. 3rd and get $5.00 off! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPay online when you register or cash/check at the door. Coffee/tea and pastries included. \n\n\nRegistration\n\n\nOpens September 14\, 2026Register at https://cwcmtdiablo.org/meetings-and-workshops/ \n\n\n\n\n\nGALA RUSSRomance Author\, Book Coach\, and Publishing Strategistgalarussauthor@gmail.comgalarussauthor.com\n\n\n\nGala Russ is a multi-published romance author\, book coach\, and publishing strategist who helps writers move from overwhelm to clarity. She works with: \n\n\n\n\nBrand-new writers to show them that starting (and finishing) a book is possible and what steps lead from a book idea to a finished draft\n\n\n\nGenre authors who want to strengthen romantic subplots so readers root for the couple\n\n\n\nDraft finishers who need a clear roadmap for editing and publishing: traditional or indie\n\n\n\nAll writers to market their books in a way that complements their interests and budgets\n\n\n\nWriters ready to indie-publish their work\n\n\n\n\nIn the past four years\, Gala has published nine books—from young adult to adult\, closed-door to wide-open door—including two trilogies. She’s currently writing a new urban-fantasy series.A repeat presenter at national events\, she has spoken at Daniel David Wallace’s Teachers of Fiction and Escape the Plot Forest summits and taught a two-hour Romancing the Subplot workshop for Beth Barany’s speculative-fiction community.Her teaching blends approachable guidance with no-nonsense strategy. Having published her first book without understanding comps\, tropes\, story structure\, editing timelines\, querying\, or marketing\, she knows how isolating the path to figuring all those out alone can feel. Now she helps writers skip years of trial and error with clear frameworks and actionable\, tailored advice aligning with open web initiatives. \n\n\n\nBring with you: \n\n Up to four chapters of a work-in-progress (WIP)\, preferably with multiple scenes.\n DO NOT bring the first or last chapters! (That’s a whole ‘nother workshop!)\n Novels\, novellas\, and short stories all work for this course.\n\nGala suggests that you bring your work on a laptop to edit electronically. However\, you can bring a paper copy if that’s your preference. \nQuestions? Email Gala at galarussauthor@gmail.com \n  URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/september-2026-general-meeting-with-diane-frank-poetry-as-the-language-of-the-soul/ LOCATION:Pleasant Hill Community Center\, 320 Civic Drive\, Pleasant Hill\, California CATEGORIES:Branch Meetings and Workshops ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/DianeFrank.cello_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260911T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260911T163000 DTSTAMP:20260826T171309Z CREATED:20260824T195520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T171309Z UID:70021-1789138800-1789144200@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Mt. Diablo Board Meeting on Zoom DESCRIPTION:All members are welcome to attend Board Meetings as non-participating guests (but don’t be surprised if we ask for your impressions and ideas). This is YOUR club. We hope you are interested in how we run it.If you’d like to attend\, contact President Barry Hampshire at president@cwcmtdiablo.org. He will send you the link to join on Zoom. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/mt-diablo-board-meeting-on-zoom-2/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Board Meeting ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Zoom.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260826T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260826T133000 DTSTAMP:20260731T044842Z CREATED:20260731T044834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T044842Z UID:69920-1787745600-1787751000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Writers Connection DESCRIPTION:Writers Connection is a social place where like-minded people\, hapless authors\, and creative geniuses can come together and chat about the one thing they all have in common: the compulsion to write. It is open to any CWC member\, published or not\, interested in a freewheeling\, nonjudgmental\, welcoming\, and relaxed environment. Content will include a potpourri of any writing or associated topics: news items\, agents\, publishers\, bouquets & brickbats. Membership is open-ended\, limited only by space\, and people may come and go as they please. Short readings are welcome.  Please Register so we can have the venue prepare a large enough table for us – Food and Beverages are encouraged and are on your own dime! Delicious!! \n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Writers Connection\n \n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/writers-connection-2/ LOCATION:Chicken Pie Shop\, 1251 Arroyo Way\, Walnut Creek\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/New-Logo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260821T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260821T140000 DTSTAMP:20260723T165747Z CREATED:20260723T165737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T165747Z UID:69907-1787313600-1787320800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:What’s Your Story Reading Group DESCRIPTION:Image by freepik\n\n\n\nMeetings are on the 3rd Friday of each month.\n\n\n\nIf you are reading:\n\n\n\n\nTime yourself beforehand. Practice! A 2\,500 word story will typically take 10/12 mins to read. The short story 15-minute limit is firm.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words have a time limit of 30 minutes.\n\n\n\nWe will use a microphone.\n\n\n\nRobert or Raquel will introduce each reader. He/she will read the title and the genre.\n\n\n\nFeedback\, if requested\, will be given. Note: feedback is part of your allotted minutes. Therefore\, your reading time should be shortened.\n\n\n\nThe next reader will be introduced etc.\n\n\n\nIf time permits\, we’ll have final questions.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCome\, read\, and enjoy listening at CWC Mt. Diablo’s Short Story Reading Group!\n\n\n\nTo accommodate the interests of those who write stories longer than 2\,500 words\, we will alternate the format of the monthly meetings. Every other month\, the meeting will be devoted to stories of 5\,000 words in length. These longer-story meetings will last three hours instead of the usual two. \n\n\n\nThe How \n\n\n\n\nWe will maintain a list of authors who want to read\, along with the title/genre of their stories.\n\n\n\nA small committee will select the readers for each month. You will know well in advance when it is your turn to read.\n\n\n\nStories up to 2\,500 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece using the form below.\n\n\n\nStories up to 5\,000 words: Submit the title and genre of your piece AND upload the story itself in pdf\, using the form below.\n\n\n\nNew stories or a story already published are welcome.\n\n\n\nYou can read a chapter from a book if it is a free-standing story and meets the time limit. \n\n\n\nYou may return to this form to submit other titles.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: What’s Your (Short)Story?\n \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n I want to:(Required)\n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 2\,500 words.\n \n \n Submit a title to read for stories up to 5\,000 words. The story is attached below.\n \n \n RSVP for the next meeting.\n Story Title (2500 words)Story Title (5000 words)Story GenreUpload your storyAccepted file types: pdf\, docx\, doc\, Max. file size: 128 MB. Questions or problems with the registration process?\nContact Marlene at webmaster@cwcmtdiablo.org.We do not share your personal data with anyone. See our Privacy Policy.\n Submit \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/whats-your-story-reading-group/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Author-Panel-2-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260820T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260820T190000 DTSTAMP:20260805T075726Z CREATED:20260805T075718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T075726Z UID:69937-1787245200-1787252400@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:CWC Member John Tullis Live Reading Event DESCRIPTION:CWC MEMBER JOHN TULLIS LIVE READING EVENT AUGUST 20TH IN BENICIA\n\n\n\n“Mark your calendars and pass the word…there’s something going down in Benicia…a town that still has dark alleys that upright citizens avoid…but that’s their lossHope to see you there for our performance…complete with period clothing and paraphernalia!See you in the shadows.”– John URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/cwc-member-john-tullis-live-reading-event/ LOCATION:Blackbird Gallery\, 422 First Street\, Benicia\, California\, 94510\, United States CATEGORIES:Member Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/John-Tullis.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260812T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260812T200000 DTSTAMP:20260722T042724Z CREATED:20260722T042710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T042724Z UID:69896-1786561200-1786564800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Open Mic on Zoom DESCRIPTION:Sign up to read a five-minute segment from something you’ve written. It can be a work-in-progress\, something already published\, or that sheaf of poems you hid under the bed last year. Share it with writers and readers at our 90-minute Read Fest! \n\n\n\nNot ready to read your work to a crowd? That’s okay\, we need an audience\, too. Come and hear what others have to say. \n\n\n\nWhen you register\, let us know if you want to be a reader. The first seven people to sign-up will be given a slot to read for five minutes. \n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for Open Mic Night!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n If we have more than seven requests to read\, we’ll start the list for the next event. \n\n\n\nWe’ll have time for discussion\, but please remember\, this is not a critique session! Talk about what you liked\, not what the author can do better. \n\n\n\nThis event is open to the public. Bring your friends! \n\n\n\nRegister to receive your Zoom link to join. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Open Mic Events\n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/open-mic-on-zoom-2/ LOCATION:California CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Microphone.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260729T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260729T133000 DTSTAMP:20260624T233158Z CREATED:20260624T233149Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T233158Z UID:69777-1785326400-1785331800@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Writers Connection DESCRIPTION:Writers Connection is a social place where like-minded people\, hapless authors\, and creative geniuses can come together and chat about the one thing they all have in common: the compulsion to write. It is open to any CWC member\, published or not\, interested in a freewheeling\, nonjudgmental\, welcoming\, and relaxed environment. Content will include a potpourri of any writing or associated topics: news items\, agents\, publishers\, bouquets & brickbats. Membership is open-ended\, limited only by space\, and people may come and go as they please. Short readings are welcome.  Please Register so we can have the venue prepare a large enough table for us – Food and Beverages are encouraged and are on your own dime! Delicious!! \n\n\n\n\n \n \n Register: for Writers Connection\n \n \n Today's Date URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/writers-connection-4/ LOCATION:Chicken Pie Shop\, 1251 Arroyo Way\, Walnut Creek\, California\, 94523 CATEGORIES:Meetings - Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/New-Logo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260725T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260725T163000 DTSTAMP:20260714T065530Z CREATED:20260714T065517Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T065530Z UID:69855-1784993400-1784997000@cwcmtdiablo.org SUMMARY:Dave Eggers Book Signing & Author Event at Fair Arrow Books DESCRIPTION:Dave Eggers at Fair Arrow Books\n\n\n\nHello Writers\, Readers\, Artists and Creative Friends\,San Francisco author Dave Eggers will be coming to Fair Arrow Books for a brief visit to introduce his latest novel\, Contrapposto.  Eggers is well known for his breakout novel\, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius as well as The Circle and many other best-sellers.Here’s the information:• Who: San Francisco author Dave Eggers• Where: Fair Arrow Books\, 816 Main Street\, downtown Martinez• When: Saturday\, July 25th\, 3:30 – 4:30 pmFair Arrow Books is a welcome addition to historic downtown Martinez\, home of pioneering conservationist John Muir\, baseball legend Joe DiMaggio and\, according to local lore\, the birthplace of the Martini cocktail! \n\n\n\nCome early before the event\, stroll along Main Street and check out our variety of small businesses\, including works by our talented artists collective at Main Street Arts\, crafty creations at Busywork\, cool retro clothing at Faded Gold Vintage and many others. Enjoy lunch at Roxx on Main\, go Greek at Troy and if you’d like a cold local beer check out Del Cielo Brewery!Come to downtown MARTINEZ\, support SMALL BUSINESSES and enjoy FREE PARKING on weekends! \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\nNote: This is a Non-CWC event. URL:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/event/dave-eggers-book-signing-author-event-at-fair-arrow-books/ LOCATION:Fair Arrow Books\, 816 Main Street\, Martinez\, California\, 94553\, United States CATEGORIES:Non-CWC Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cwcmtdiablo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/dave-eggers-event-july25.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR