NTPWA meets 7:00 to 10:00pm in Room 202, the Bedford Boys Ranch, 2819 Forest Ridge Drive, Bedford, Texas 76021 every Thursday except the first, January through November.

For additional information and directions, please contact Elaine Lanmon 817-498-7870 (metro) or email justel2@charter.net

While the workshop never meets later than 10:00 pm, those members who desire to do so traditionally adjourn to a nearby restuarant where the evening's discussion continues.

Visitors may attend twice. Visitors are not allowed to read and only in rare circumstances are invited to critique. This opportunity is usually reserved for visiting editors and/or agents.

Applicants must be 18 or over and be seriously committed to writing publishable work which they intend to market. As the name implies, NTPWA is composed of experienced writers. While beginners may apply, they should do so with the knowledge their work will be reviewed by the applications committee which may or may not choose to place the applicant's name before a vote of the Board and the general membership.

While we strive to provide a learning environment and promising beginners may be accepted and encouraged, our stated purpose is to maintain a high standard of accomplishment. NTPWA members are seeking publication and are writing toward that goal. Should an applicant be turned down, he/she may reapply in six months if he/she so desires.

NTPWA operates in a workshop atrmosphere of read and critique. Readers sign up at the beginning of each meeting. Each reader has up to 15 minutes to read aloud, followed by five minutes of verbal critique from his colleagues. Readers may not defend or speak during critique, except to ask for clarification.

As part of its marketing function, NTPWA hosts visits with editors and agents and makes every effort to bring members into one-on-one contact with people who are actively seeking publishable work. Marketing tips and information are routinely shared at each meeting. As part of an on-going community service involvement, NTPWA members work with schools, serve as contest judges for schools and other writers' groups, offer classes, and provide speakers for a variety of community based organizations.

Annual membership dues are $100. The major portion of the budget is earmarked for editor/agent visits. The remainder is used to cover normal running expenses such as copies and postage.

In addition to paying dues, members are expected to read and critique, attend meetings on a regular basis and/or to maintain contact with the group, and be available to assist with special projects.