Kathleen Spring
Non-Fiction Books – Video Documentaries
JOURNALIST
PhotoJournalist
Kathleen Spring
Non-Fiction Books – Video Documentaries
JOURNALIST
PhotoJournalist
Journalist.
While someone who writes in a journal is recording their personal history, a journalist is writing the history of the world around them. Writer Kathleen Spring tries to merge the two styles into one story by making each "world story" personal. Whether she is researching and writing about historical materials, or interviewing a local award winner, readers will enjoy more than just the facts. They will understand the how and why a person, place or thing became what it is today. And, they will leave the article with an upbeat feeling about the world being a little bit better because of what they just read and the people they just learned about. She has been writing for publications since 1990, including daily, bi-weekly and weekly newspapers and a select number of magazines.
Areas of professional expertise: Non-fiction; features; documentary scripts; profiles/interviews; self-help; historic; arts; reviews; business; writing instructor.
Personal bio: Emphasis is on details, readability, deadlines, accuracy, ethics, entertainment, and positive promotion of the subject. Personable and deligent. Can also take quality photographs. Has received SPJ & Colorado Press Women Awards.
Photographer: Spring takes quality, interesting, appropriate photographs that can accompany her article; as well as single photos and photo-essays.
Samples of her work can be seen in numerous archives and some on the internet. In 2008, these web pages will be revised, updated, and they will include samples of her work. In the mean time you can check out:
Photo Journalist.
Kathleen's prize-winning photographs have appeared in newspapers, magazines and books. Her photos appeal to the modern taste of the readership, as well as often encouraging emotional responses. She strives to have them tell a story, whether it is one photo or a compilation.
As a writer, she is able to capture the essence of the story in the photographs that accompany her article. As well as being able to push the level of the article up a notch with the photograph.
In 2007, she received first and third place in "photo essays" (a group of photographs that tell a story, without an accompanying article) from Colorado Press Women Assn. She has also received other awards and honorable mentions; including having one-person art gallery showings.
The series of books and video documentaries being published by Spring Times is meant to capture a more innocent time, and project it into today's stressed out times. The qualities of courage and love, and honoring family life are highlighted. The books include:
"People look at things with a familiarity.
It's security; and life is staying
the way it should be"
...small town resident, John Pokorski, Metamora
"Keeps Us Moving and Motivated" "I read somewhere 'small towns are really special,' and it's true. everybody watches out for each other. You couldn't go to a city and open a store and know everyone who lives there. But you can come to Whittaker and know everybody. The store is not a money maker, but it makes enough money. My husband (who's handicap) really cares for it. It's not just a job." ...Cheryl R (Includes full page black and white photographs of small town structures)
"Showing Respect to 200 Million Year Old Stone" "In today's time, everything is suppose to be done fast... so the stone masons that get there are more concerned with getting the job done fast... I show them...there's so much effort there in getting it out of the ground, so much history involved. We're working with material that hasn't seen sunlight in 200 million years. It's going to be there 3-400 years. You shouldn't just throw it in the wall; and walk away from it. You should take a little bit of extra time, and make sure it's cut right; not just cut." ...Lynn Randolph, expert stone mason, an example of the pride that Lyons stone cutters and masons take in their work.
"What IS Writers' Block?" "Getting writer's block may not be what you think it is. It might be your inner self saying that you have strayed off the path. Stop and study your work and see if you have lost your direction, or your enthusiasm, or your character's true drive. Spotting and defining the error or problem can give you the tools to get back on track." (Includes sample short-short stories putting the tips into action.)
"Don't Make Life a Gamble" "When a person gambles at the slot machine, as they begin losing, fear makes them increase their bets in hopes of getting a big win back. Fear is guiding them, and is their focus. Statistics prove that this person has a 80% chance of losing it all. When you face a challenge in your life, and you continue to throw larger and larger amounts of your precious time and money into it because you fear that it won't work out, you will more than likely accomplish what you are focusing on: losing it all. Instead of focusing on what is at stake, focus on the objective. Stop and re-think your goals, and make sure they are phrased in a positive way." (Includes workbook exercises)
"Stupid or Courageous?" "Judy studied the book with her grandmother's name in it. The list of the first 50 women voted into the Colorado Hall of Fame included her name. She was not famous for discovering the cure for cancer, nor did she help get the vote for women. Instead she was a woman who came out West alone, when it was looked on as scandalous and dangerous, and she survived. "Yes, she survived well," Judy thought, "and, I'm living proof." (The story of Judy's grandmother is told, highlighting when she was a girl).
"That's a Good One. Small Towns of the Northwest." "I hope people like my clay pieces as much as I liked making them. I don't have much time to talk to them and find out. I'm in the back making more. I just leave out a clay jar with a sign that says "Leave your money here, and thanks!" and I've never had a person not remember to leave the money for their candlestick, or whatever."
Specializing in human interest stories, Kathleen Spring has written profiles and feature articles for local and major newspapers and a select number of magazines, often accompanied by her photographs; as well as doing "life story" video documentaries. Her video social documentaries and photographs have been shown in Michigan and Colorado and have been highly received. She is currently in Colorado working on her next three books, and will be concluding a nine-year video project on "oral histories." She also teaches writing workshops at her mountainside retreat.
The Society of Professional Journalist (SPJ) awarded her in 1996 the national Member of the Year award (Howard Dubin Outstanding Pro Chapter Member, a once in a lifetime achievement). She has received numerous academic scholarships. Her newspaper articles and writing instruction book received awards from the Colorado Press Women Assn.
As a Journalist student, she was picked to attend the Howard Scripps Leadership workshop at the Society of Professional Journalists headquarters. She was also chosen as the Rising Star for the Detroit area region of Women in Communications (WICA), including a $500 scholarship award. After publishing the student version of the SPJ newspaper, she was asked to develop one for the Detroit area professional chapter, and to be its editor. She received the WICA leadership award for top student member. As an honors student at Wayne State University, she graduated in 1993, and, she received their prestigious Journalist of the Year award.
Kathleen is also a world traveller and has many stories of her solo adventures to share, including color photographs, and hand-picked souvenirs. She likes to talk about small towns in the US that she has discovered over the years, while visiting all 48 states.
It's easy for listeners to get caught up in her enthusiasm. Her philosophy that "we are all one with the earth" makes her living proof that kindness, positive thinking, and taking time to be in nature can lead to a fulfilling, joyful life.
"We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves."
Buddha, The Dharmapada
Children's Lectures and Workshops: She has lectured and tutored children from 5th grade to 12th grade on writing, poetry, historical research, survey taking, women pioneer life, journalism and small town life.
Lectures and Workshops for Adult Groups: Historic societies, library associations, senior groups, recreation centers, full-time mom groups, and more.
Topics: Writing: Creative Writing from the Heart; organizing and writing your biography/or/autobiography; journaling for self-discovery and self-healing. Small Towns History and Economy: Small Town Life in America (or at the turn of the Century). Sandstone Quarries. Health and Spirituality: Relieving Stress Techniques; Art Therapy, using symbols and the mandala; Creating Kindness; Goals through Positive Thinking; Mission Statements (personal and business); Angels Amongst Us; Meditations (instructions; benefits; methods). Travel: Travelling in Colorado, Michigan, Great Lakes area, Southwest; Women Travellers going Solo; Packing and Tips for a Foreign Trip; and more...
Please inquire. We can modify must lectures to meet your needs. We will work with you to arrange for "whole day" or "multi-day" presentations, for various age groups. We can help you devise workbooks, and other presentation materials.
Prices range from $50 (local small groups); $100 to $500, depending on length of lecture and number of people in attendance, and presentation material. Travel considerations necessary.
"Kathleen (helped us) launch our new company in a competitive market. (She) went above and beyond the call of normal duty and actively supported all activities of the new company (using her) expertise to promote it. She has a heart for good business and a dedication." Linda F. Berry, co-founder of Women 2 Women. CHAIN BOOK STORES and LIBRARIES: you may contact us or Partners Distributors, Emery Pratt, or Brodart. Our books and video-documentaries can be found in many libraries, historic museums and archives (eg, Burton Archives). It can also be special ordered through major bookstores, and a few smaller ones in the towns mentioned in the books.
Writing Tips by Spring can also be found in the 2006 book of writing tips compiled by the Colorado Author's League (75 years in Colorado): "Writing, etc." available at Amazon or the publisher: ghostroadpress.com
--John Hickenlooper, Mayor of Denver, 2006 See www.SPJ.org // www.CIPAbooks.com // www.ColoradoAuthors.org //www.DenverWomenPressClub.org //the American Society of Journalists and Authors www.asja.com ///www.SPANnet.org
SPJ: Colorado Pro Chapter: monthly SPJ Speakers, mainly at breakfast, cost $15. For update on SPJ National Conference speakers; chose between workshops and professional development lectures. Their Mission: The Society of Professional Journalists is dedicated to the perpetuation of a free press as the cornerstone of our nation and our liberty. To ensure that the concept of self-government outlined by the U.S. Constitution remains a reality into future centuries, the American people must be well informed in order to make decisions regarding their lives, and their local and national communities. It is the role of journalists to provide this information in an accurate, comprehensive, timely and understandable manner.
The Denver Press Club is one of the oldest Press Clubs in the country (founded in 1884). It's also the longest continuously operating Press Club in America. Come take a walk through history and check out the place where “Ginger Rogers learned to play poker and Woodrow Wilson paid a call.” Great menu, and ask about the schedule of "press celebrity bartending" and other special events. Denver Press Club, 1330 Glenarm Place, Denver, CO. (303) 571-5260
We offer free writing tips bi-monthly and a free fact-filled, entertaining newsletter quarterly. Disclaimer – Copyright 1998-2008: All logos, photos, and original and html text are Copyright © by Kathleen Spring. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or use is prohibited without written permission from owner. – All prices are subject to change at the reasonable discretion of the owner.
"Kathleen Spring's article on the long-awaited (four year!) senior low-cost housing project was thorough and professional. Super job, timely, and loaded with facts." Steve Novak, Editor, Old Lyons Recorder (6/06)
"I read your article last night and was QUITE impressed! You took some difficult, technical information and presented it in an informative yet engaging manner - no easy feat! Great job!!" Gary LaFever, President Lyons Chamber of Commerce, referring to 400 page marketing survey presented to Town. (8/06)
"I love reading and sharing Kathleen's articles. They always seem to start up a conversation or stir emotions. She's a great storytelling and manages to work in a lot of facts into the article," Jennifer Machorlatti, Media/Communications Professor, Western Michigan University.
"Thank you for treating our group to your great outdoor retreat. The lecture on Stress Management was just what we needed. It wasn't too technical, and the clues on how to get our bosses involved when we got back really worked." Judith B.
"I thought I knew everything about my state, but when Kathleen started to speak, and share her endless pile of books and photographs about small towns, my mouth was agape. I had to add her book to our library." Mary J, Oakland County
"We arranged to have Kathleen teach a writing class at our book store. My front clerk could hardly keep his mind on his work, as he eaves dropped on the exciting lessons and unique methods she used. The students seemed exhausted and yet elated when they left, and some are regular customers after the experience." Fiona, Estes Park, Old and Fine Books
"While I have found Kathleen to be a fountain of information, it is the manner in which she teaches that makes her an exceptional teacher. She shares with her audience her joy of life and her enthusiasm for teaching, whether it is travel tips or writing clues. My librarian administrator told me that she could tell which classes people liked best because they would leave the room smiling and talking, and that's certainly what they did when they left her classes." Orlando Hodges, Community affairs, Troy Public Library.
"You've changed my life. I am now working with troubled pregnant teens (but then you knew before I did). The Mission statement we had to write up really clarified things for me. My husband thanks you too." MaryLou S.
Links to Published Books & Videos: Description, quotes; available for purchase.
"Colorado is fertile ground for literary inspiration, and for more than seven decades, the Colorado Authors' League has nurtured the literary spark. "Writing, Etc." represents CAL's ongoing commitment to helping the careers of beginning and experienced writers."
Lectures: E-mail questions or to inquire about LECTURES or BOOK SIGNINGS contact Spring Time Writers at: author @kathleenspring ....com or the address below.
Estes Park Tea Time Readers: Locals can join our monthly literature/poetry free discussion group in Estes Park, Colorado.
Memberships: Spring is or has been an active member the following organizations over the years: SPAN (Small Publishers) and; CPW (Colorado Press Women) and Natl. Federation of Press Women, CAL (Colorado Author's League); DFS (Denver Film Society); SPJ (Society of Professional Journalists); AWC (Women in Communications); Women Writing the West, University Film & Video Assn.
Colorado Authors League, celebrating it's 75th anniversary. The state's premier organization of independent, professional writers.
Description: Provides access to a wealth of freelance jobs
and resources. Visitors can receive a FREE report on the top markets,
a course of market tips and a twice-weekly Freelance Job Report.
unless you click approval.
We collect no info on you. This is a safe site.
SPRING TIME WRITERS WORKSHOPS
**NOTE** This page will be revised with exciting new features in the near future!!
Know a friend without a computer,
we'll send a brochure. –
Use this Address to send your order and check to:
Both FAT COW and DREAMHOST have Cheap web sites/domains/email ! Please help support us and tell them you found them on Rocky Mt. Retreats.com
Kathleen Spring
Spring Times
P. O. Box 512
Lyons, CO 80540-0512
303-823-0997 call 10am to 7pm Mountain MST
author @ kathleenspring ....com
Date last modified: July 10, 2008