Children's story time

Children's story time
BOARDMAN -- Ms. Laura will read, play music and conduct other creative activities for toddlers during Little Listeners Story Time on Wednesday and Thursday at Barnes & amp; Noble Bookseller, 381 Boardman-Poland Road. Sessions are free and begin at 10:30 a.m.
Writing workshop
YOUNGSTOWN -- Pig Iron Literary & amp; Art Works, 26 N. Phelps St., will hold its monthly Write On Write Now Work in Process writing workshop Feb. 28. The session will run from 7 to 9 p.m. with Jim Villani of Pig Iron Press as facilitator. Writers of all ages and ability are welcome. The cost is 3; reservations are not required. For more about the organization, its workshops and other activities, call (330) 747-6932.
Novel by area authorreceives distinction
ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA -- Sam Moffie of Boardman was among seven authors whose works received the distinction of "Highly Commended" in Carpe Diem Publishing's 2006 Open Novel Contest, which ran from November 2006 through Jan. 30, 2007.
The distinction is typically given to the contest's runner-up. However, Andrew Byrne, Carpe Diem owner and a published author himself, said the quality of submissions -- 25 total -- made it difficult for judges to narrow it down to just one first-place winner and one runner-up. Each winner receives a certificate and will have their work published by Carpe Diem, an independent publishing house based in Adelaide, South Australia.
Moffie earned his honor for "Swap," his first novel, which follows Sheldon Marsh, a half-Jewish, hearing-impaired pro baseball pitcher, whose life takes some interesting turns after he decides to trade wives with a teammate. Set in Youngstown, the novel mirrors a real-life incident that took place in 1973 when Mike Kekich and Fritz Peterson of the New York Yankees swapped wives, children and even pets before the beginning of the season. Moffie, who prior to winning the publishing prize with Carpe Diem had self-published the work, is planning a book reading and signing for 7 p.m. Feb. 26 at The Poland Branch of the Public Library of Youngstown, 311 McKinley Way. Carpe Diem will release the book soon with a new cover and ISBN.
The novel writing contest is held annually by Carpe Diem. The 2007 competition begins March 1, as does a short story contest. Submissions, which can be of any length or genre, will be accepted until Aug. 1, with winners to be notified in September. For terms and other conditions, contact Byrne via email at andrew.byrne@shaminosrealm.com.au or visit the Carpe Diem Web site at www.shaminosrealm.com.au.
Vindicator staff reports