Hello Elsewheres!
I'm the Austin ML and I'm hugely excited that y'all are out there making it happen for yourselves. Since you don't have an ML in each of your cities, I thought I'd share some information that has helped me create write-ins for my region. I hope you also find it helpful. And PM me if you have any questions.
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If you want to have a write-in near your home or work, you can create your own!
Start by posting in the Elsewhere forum. State your location and propose a day and time. Based on feedback from your fellow writers, take a deep breath, and decide!
- Try to pick a time and location that is convenient for others, but don't stress too much about it. It should also be convenient for you.
- Scope out the venue ahead of time, if possible, to get a feel for how it might work with a bunch of writers.
- Check with the venue to make sure they'll be happy to have you and aren't planning a big event at the same time (it's difficult to write with an open mic going on – or live ponies in the parking lot!)
- Tell people how they can recognize you - sticker on your laptop, table-top sign, carnation in your buttonhole, whatever.
- BE ON TIME. In fact, be early. Grab a table in as obvious a spot as possible. If you have a friend with you, grab two tables - or bring a sweater to hang over a chair.
- If you have a power strip and/or extension cord, bring it to boost electrical access.
- Do not be upset if attendance is light. Just schedule another write-in if you want, and keep on keeping on.
- During the write-in, if you can stand it, walk up to people who look like they are NaNo-ing and say “hi”. They may have missed your carnation and feared they were all alone.
- Tip the servers/baristas well and be exceptionally nice to them.
Ahead of time, you can discuss (or decide) what kind of write-in you want, or ask the Wrimos who show up. Some people come primarily to socialize, some only to write, and many like a combination of the two. Ask (or be alert) so you can suggest a “quiet zone” if necessary.
Some people like to have challenges and word wars at their write-ins – where everyone does a timed writing and then compares the results. Others just hunker down and write. However you do it, it will be great. Happy writing!
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ML Captain of Capital Ideas
Austin, TX Municipal Liaison 2004-2008
NaNoWriMo Winner 2002-2008
