News Article

Peace River Center for Writers launches local press

Sep 27, 2012

PUNTA GORDA, Fla – The newly formed Peace River Press has one objective: uncover the treasure trove of local literary gold at the heart of Charlotte County.

The independent, non-profit press launched earlier this year is an extension of the Peace River Center for Writers at Edison State College Charlotte Campus. The press will showcase the talented writers of the area by offering writers and poets the assistance necessary for publication.

Carol Mahler and her collection of poetry “How Do I Follow” became the first release of the Peace River Press earlier this month. Mahler, the former founder of the PRCW, will read an excerpt from the historic publication during a party on Wednesday, Oct. 3 in the Edison State auditorium.

“This is a shining moment for the Peace River Press and literary enthusiasts throughout Charlotte County,” said Doug Houck, executive editor of the press and vice president of the PRCW. “This has been a goal of ours for a long time, and to publish one of our own is a phenomenal feeling.”

Mahler founded the PRCW in 2002 with a focus on the intrinsic value of education and the love of the written word, and served as executive director until 2004. The center gives writers an opportunity to develop their craft and pursue their dreams through various workshops and courses.

The former Edison State professor remains a dedicated member of the PRCW and has two previous publications to her credit. Mahler also has worked as a state scholar for the Smithsonian Institution touring across Florida.

The catered release party for “How Do I Follow” will feature a reading by Mahler, followed by an open forum and book signing.

 “I really think this could be a stepping stone for us,” said John Pelot, president of the PRCW and assistant editor of the press. “We’re not a vanity press. Nobody can pay us to publish just anything. We have to select it and we’re publishing great, quality writing from local authors.”

The Peace River Press intends to publish two books a year, according to Pelot, with aspirations to grow into a press respected throughout the state within the next five years.

For more information about the Peace River Center for Writers at Edison State College Charlotte Campus please visit www.edison.edu/charlotte/peaceriverwriters or call 941-637-3514.

Celebrating 50 years of excellence, Edison State College is Southwest Florida’s largest, most accessible and most affordable institution of higher education. Proud to be tobacco-free, Edison State serves more than 26,000 students per year in five counties and online.  For more information please visit www.edison.edu.

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Last Updated: September 27, 2012