This Week @ Monday Creek: C Faherty Brown, Author - Stories Rooted in Humanity and Heart

C. Faherty Brown — Stories Rooted in Humanity and Heart

C. Faherty Brown is an Ohio‑based author whose writing is defined by emotional depth, curiosity about people, and a profound respect for the stories that shape us. Her work spans novels, short stories, poetry, and reflective prose, each piece driven by a simple but powerful belief: every human has an intriguing story worth telling.

I first met C. Faherty Brown at a Hocking Hills Book Fair. Her books have an intriguing simplicity about life’s scenarios. Her creative process is organic and intuitive. Rather than constructing elaborate plots in advance, she begins with a single idea — a thought that intrigues her — and lets the story unfold naturally as she writes. She describes herself as a traveler, an observer, and someone deeply invested in the emotional truth of her characters. Her stories often draw inspiration from her personal experiences, studies, and travels, though they are not autobiographical.

She views writing as both a grounding force and a way to honor the countless untold stories of humanity. With billions of lives lived across time, she imagines the narratives we’ll never hear — and writes to give some of them a voice.

Bibliography:

Snow Night — A reflective, atmospheric work published in multiple editions (2022 and 2025).

The Posted Pathway — A 2025 release exploring personal journeys and emotional landscapes.

There’s A Place I Will Go — Published in October 2024, There’s A Place I Will Go is one of Brown’s most compelling works — a story that blends introspection, emotional honesty, and the author’s signature character‑driven style.

Barely Remembered — A 2024 paperback centered on memory, identity, and the fragility of recollection.

Ukko — A 2023 story with mythic undertones and rich character work.

Every Day Ordinary — A 2020 collection celebrating the beauty in the mundane.

The Sentinel — A 2018 paperback exploring themes of watchfulness and inner strength.

Her works are known for emotional resonance, character intimacy, and a quiet but persistent sense of wonder.

She also creates a beautiful, leather-bound, hand-made "Field Book" to record thoughts, ideas, and collectible things. Her corner-page bookmarks are fashioned from the very best leather...

Visit with C. Faherty Brown at the November 21, 2026 Hocking Hills Book Fair and connect with her on Facebook CFahertyBrown. For signed copies of her books, Field Books, and bookmarks, email her... colleenbrowntkd@hotmail.com.

Thank you, Colleen, for your inspiration and friendship. 

An Interview With Author J.E. Irvin

 

An Interview With Author J.E. Irvin

 

J.E. Irvin has long been a storyteller who understands the quiet power of human connection. Through her novels, short fiction, and essays, she invites readers into worlds shaped by empathy, tension, and the complicated beauty of everyday lives. Her work—thoughtful, layered, and deeply attuned to character—has earned her a loyal readership and a respected place in today’s literary landscape.

 

In this conversation, we explore the inspirations behind her authorship, the craft choices that guide her writing, and the experiences that continue to shape her voice. Whether you’re discovering her work for the first time or have followed her journey through the years, J.E. Irvin offers insights that linger long after the final page.

 

Welcome, J.E.!

 

GM: Every writer has that one scene or character that surprises them. Did anything in your new book, BURIED, take on a life of its own while you were drafting?

JEI: Fabulous question! Since I’m a pantser [a writer who creates stories with little to no prior planning or outlining, preferring to "fly by the seat of their pants" and discover the plot as they write], I start with a rough idea of who, what, where, when, but I usually haven’t mapped out the HOW. When surprises pop up, I enjoy them as much as the reader does! Having said that, the opening of BURIED surprised even me by what it reveals as the main character’s medical hurdle (Carl, who changed her name from Carole – reason explained in the novel). I hadn’t planned precisely for that revelation, nor the other twists that occur later: ID of bones, phone call, new characters.

 

GM: You've written across several genres and themes over the years. How has your approach to authorship evolved as you’ve grown your body of work?

JEI: At first, I just wanted to tell the story, to get everything down in order, to actually complete an entire manuscript and then write another one. Now, my honest goal is to improve my art and craft with each successive book -in plot, character development, the prose itself. I’m also a poet. I strive to bring the imagery and sound quality of poems into the narrative and descriptive parts of my novels. When I teach, I tell students that “we all know instinctively what good writing is.” Then I strive to achieve that in my own work.

 

GM: Your website, janetirvin.com, gives readers a glimpse into your creative world. What part of your writing life do you wish more readers could see behind the scenes?

JEI: The long hours, the interior rumination, the multiple rejections of submitted work, and the sheer joy of the writing itself – all impossible to truly convey. I suppose I also wish they knew how important this was to me, that it’s not a hobby but the true and honest calling of a born storyteller.

 

GM: When you’re not actively writing, what keeps your imagination humming — books you’re reading, places you wander, conversations that linger?

JEI: What doesn’t end up as inspiration! I tend to set stories in places I have visited – Wanakena, NY in the Adirondacks; Saugatuck, Michigan along the lake; or in fictional towns that closely resemble my own. When I hike, I listen to the natural world, which always has something to tell me. I watch the news, read as widely as I can (although I’m partial to romantasy, science fiction, romance, and any fiction that is well-written and recommended by friends). News stories frequently jumpstart a ‘what if’ question. That is what led to my first novel – The Dark End of the Rainbow. Lines of conversation, phrases in an article, a seemingly weird event or action will send me spiraling into an idea. Once in Chicago, I overheard one side of a cell phone conversation when the speaker said, “I told him not to take my pants!” I’m still trying to figure out how that story unfolds! I have a huge list of titles, plot lines, and story ideas which I will never have time to explore fully.

 

GM: What are you currently reading?

JEI: Just finished a Martha Wells robot tale, a Lucy Score ARC, and several YA novels set in Revolutionary War times: Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes, My Brother Sam IS Dead by Collier and Collier, The Fighting Ground by Avi. I’m halfway through Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson and just picked up two books from the library: The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing and The Binding. I’m hoping to develop a course around the YA books to celebrate the 250^th anniversary of our republic.

 

GM: Who's your favorite author?

JEI: This is always a very difficult question to answer because it depends on the genre. My favorite poet is W.B. Yeats. My favorite s-f author is Frank Herbert. In romantasy it’s a tight race between Sarah J Maas and Jennifer Armentrout. When it comes to mysteries, Arthur Conan Doyle, Russell Silvis, and Robert Galbraith’s Strike series. In literary fiction, I’m afraid the list is really too long, but I might mention Anthony Doerr and Elizabeth Strout as favorites. The one thing all the authors have in common is an ability to use language in the most startling and compelling way and to craft worlds I want to linger in.

 

GM: What's your best advice for novice writers, looking to embrace authorship?

JEI: Perseverance, a strong critique group, and desire. So, put your butt in the chair and write. Be open to honest, constructive criticism, and don’t give up.

 

GM: What's for lunch?

JEI: Right now, I have given up lunch in favor of writing (and studying Italian on Babbel!), but when I do have time, I love a turkey sandwich with Swiss cheese, tomato, lettuce, and mayo, chips, and a Coke. And always a piece of chocolate to sweeten the day.

 

Connect with J. E. Irvin Books:

www.janetirvin.com

https://www.facebook.com/janeteirvin

 

 

An Interview With Ohio Author M.Beth King

 

M.Beth King is a storyteller with a gift for capturing wonder, courage, and curiosity. A lifelong lover of books, King writes stories that invites readers to see themselves as brave, capable, and full of possibilities. Her work blends heartfelt themes with a touch of drama, drawing inspiration from the small, meaningful moments of everyday life. Whether she’s crafting a quiet scene of reflection or an adventure sparked by a single brave choice, King’s writing will keep you engaged. I was delighted to sit down with her to explore the heart behind her stories and the creative journey that brings them to life.

Welcome, M.Beth!

GM: How do you find the balance between crafting intricate plots and developing compelling characters?
MK: I usually let the topic guide me. The main character is set, but the other characters are created as the story unfolds. I use their characteristic traits to mold, change, strengthen, and challenge the main character. I try to make them from different backgrounds and personalities but still maintain the theme and feel of the story. How they fit into the story builds or fades as the tale unfolds. Some of them become important to the whole of the book while others are expendable.
 
GM: Can you share a pivotal moment in your writing career that significantly influenced your path to success?
MK: I think it was when people read my book and shared their positive thoughts. I never saw myself as a writer, it was just something I thought would be fun and I could cross it off my bucket list. As readers began talking about how my novel inspired them and how they enjoyed the concept of the book, I started seeing how my writing could change lives.
 
GM: What kind of research do you conduct to ensure authenticity and accuracy in your books?
MK: I used Google a lot to make sure some of the events in the book were as accurate as possible. For instance, one of the events in the first book is a Pow Wow. I did a lot of research on different Pow Wows so I could respect the tradition and keep it as authentic as possible. I also researched the cities and towns the main character visited so I could put some real places of interest into the story.
 
GM: How do you maintain originality and keep your writing fresh after publishing multiple works?
MK: I have not yet published multiple works, but if I am led to continue writing I will try to keep it as original as possible. Originality is hard because I haven’t read everything and there’s not much out there that hasn’t been covered one way or another.
 
GM: What personal experiences or beliefs have most shaped your writing style and themes?
MK: My themes are Christian based because I believe people need to hear the Gospel and I want to use my writing to share the Gospel. My writing comes from God. He inspires and provides the ideas and words for my novels. These books would not have happened without His guidance. I also enjoy traveling and visiting different places so that was included. Many of the events in the book are things I enjoy or would be interested in experiencing.
 
GM: How do you approach the process of revising and editing your work?
MK: One day at a time. I find editing my own work is tough because I know the story. It’s easy to overlook typos, grammar, and other errors because the content is familiar. This may sound crazy, but when I revised and edited the first book, I read it backwards, one paragraph at a time, against the flow. It helped me slow down and actually find the mistakes.
 
GM: Are there any recurring motifs or messages in your books that you feel particularly passionate about?
MK: The Gospel. If my book gets to one person who does not know Christ and it changes their lives to live for Jesus, then it’s all worth it.
 
GM: Can you describe a scene or passage from one of your books that you found especially challenging to write, and why?
MK: The ending. Mainly because I had in my mind how I wanted it to end, but it did not unfold the way I anticipated it would unfold. I’m still not sure if I like the conclusion, but it had to end some way.
 
GM: How do you handle criticism and feedback from readers and critics?
MK: At first it hurt, but the more I thought about what they told me the more I realized it was constructive criticism and I could use it to make myself a better writer and person. I learned a lot about myself while writing this novel and the feedback from my readers helped strengthen me.
 
GM: What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?
MK: Don’t quit. I started many different books until I finally found the start that encouraged me to keep going. I also turned the entire project over to God and allowed him to guide my thoughts and story.
 
Connect with M.Beth King…
Facebook M.Beth King
Website: www.mbethking.com
Amazon Author Page

Stone Soup and Crickets: An interview with Ohio Author Dale W. Geisel

 

Stone Soup and Crickets: An interview with Ohio Author Dale W. Geisel

 

Ohio author Dale W. Geisel is stepping onto the literary stage with his debut collection, Stone Soup and Crickets. A new voice with a gift for weaving everyday detail into layered storytelling, Geisel invites readers to pause, listen, and discover meaning in unexpected places.

 

His work balances simplicity with resonance, echoing folk wisdom while exploring the rhythms of contemporary life. With Stone Soup and Crickets, Geisel offers stories that linger—quiet yet insistent, rooted in experience yet reaching toward something universal.

 

In this interview, we’ll talk about the inspirations behind his first book, the journey of becoming an author, and how he hopes his stories will connect with readers.

 

Welcome, Dale!

 

GM: Congratulations on your new book! What inspired you to take the leap from aspiring writer to published author, and how has that transition felt?

DG: I don’t remember. It just evolved over time. I always admired Isaac Asimov and wrote a few short stories that still remain in folders because sci-fi is not my favorite writing genre. I wrote a few articles for base newspapers when I was in the Navy. Then I began submitting articles to newspapers that were based on my genealogy research. When my articles appeared front page above the fold, I saw that I could become an author.

 

I lost my daytime job for six months and used that time to write my first (too long) novel but the experience allowed me to polish my writing skills and I began submitting stories to short story contests where I was perennial runner-up. Finally, I collected my stories, cleaned them up, and submitted for publication.

 

There is nothing to compare to seeing your work in a book form and then to have people wanting to get autographed copies.

 

GM: As a new voice in Ohio’s literary landscape, what do you hope readers discover about you through your work?

DG: I hope that they see me as someone who can write in different formats. My book of short stories, Stone Soup and Crickets, seems to be doing well, and I am on the way to getting my memoir of my Navy years published. I have also completed the first draft of my novel set in the Civil War. Following that, I have the material collected for a guide on how Senior Citizens can ride the entire length of the Ohio to Erie bike trail. So, it is my desire to be seen as a versatile and talented writer.

 

GM: Can you share the story behind your new book- what sparked it, and what do you hope readers carry away after turning the last page?

DG: I have always disliked the requirement that a short story should be metaphorical. I have read many metaphorical stories that are pure metaphor with very thin story lines. I lean toward a good story that may or may not be a metaphor. In my book there are several stories that are metaphorical, but they are stories that carry the metaphor forward and not the other way around. Because my book is all short stories, there are 18 different last pages and each last page should illicit a different response. I love to read my own stories and have them bring me to tears. One response I had from a reader gave me great joy because a reader was so upset with Hokey Pokey that she couldn’t finish the story. I was attempting to portray an offensive, obnoxious, obsessive man who wanted women to notice his “equipment.” The reader found him to be over the top offensive and I congratulated myself for writing him so well. Unfortunately, she did not read to the end where the protagonist found redemption of sorts. However, I was a tiny bit upset that she did not catch the humor in the character and the story.

 

GM: Were there any unexpected challenges or joys in bringing this book to life that shaped you as a writer?

DG: I think I was surprised that I could write something that would elicit emotions from ME! I wrote it. I know how it ends. But, I can laugh and I can cry at my own writing. So the lesson is to bring out the emotion in myself; then I will feel successful.

 

GM: Which authors or books have most influenced your style and how do they echo through your own writing?

DG: I always like the stories that have surprise endings. In Stone Soup and Crickets the Crickets part refers to the fact that some people will eat crickets and love them. Other people will find them offensive. Much like the story mentioned above, a particular story will be both offensive and entertaining, depending on the reader. There are a few crickets in the book, but I won’t try to judge your taste.

 

GM: Do you have a favorite book you return to again and again and what makes it timeless to you?

DG: I always liked The Count of Monte Cristo. I don’t re-read it, but I will occasionally meditate on its multiple messages; revenge, betrayal, justice. I always like happy endings, but sometimes the appropriate ending is not happy. My short story Diasperein is certainly not happy, but the ending is sort of related to Monte Cristo in that the antagonist gets what she deserves.

 

GM: What are you currently working on and how does it build on or break away from your debut?  

DG: I am currently working on getting my memoir (Twenty Years With No Mast) published. The challenges are different because the goals are different. In my memoir I feel that my goal is to provide a message of “up from destitution,” and I must present myself as a model of that message. The message is carried forward in the same spirit as Twenty Years Before the Mast by Charles Erskine except the life and cultures depicted are set in the 20^th century instead of the 19^th.

 

GM: How do you balance discipline and inspiration in your writing routine?

DG: I never give it a thought. When I am writing I am focused without motivation. I hate distraction when I am pouring words onto paper/keyboard. I sometimes have to force myself to get on the computer, but once I get there, I have no trouble keeping going. However, inspiration is tough. The best thing I can do is challenge myself to write a certain subject or word, etc. The story Hokey Pokey was such a challenge. The story Happy Birthday P U was a challenge to write a story with dialog only – no interludes of author describing the settings.

 

GM: How does your philosophy on life shape the stories you tell and what truths do you hope to illuminate for readers?

DG: I really don’t cogitate on the meaning of life when I am writing. However, I won’t write something that is counter to my belief system. The story One talks about how we are all one, even in a horrific genocide. Replete talks about caring for those we love without looking for reciprocity. Just God asks us to think outside ourselves, to care for others above ourselves.

 

GM: If you could distill your outlook on writing and living into one guiding principle, what would it be?

DG: Live what you write and write what you live.

 

GM: What’s for lunch?

DG: Fried baloney. DID YOU KNOW; in the 1960’s the Navy did a survey of what the sailors thought of various meals. The favorite food: fried baloney. The least favorite food: fried baloney. Go figure.

 

Connect with Dale…

Buy the Book: Stone Soup and Crickets

Follow on Amazon: AmazonAuthor Page

This Week @ Monday Creek: Celebrating Young Writers in the Nelsonville-York City School District

Winners of the 16th Annual Buckeye Creative Writing Contest
Left to Right: Myla Bean, Alina Morris, Karlena Cunningham, Mason Mash
Nelsonville Public Square, Nelsonville, Ohio 

 

Winners Announced for 16th Annual Buckeye Creative Writing Contest

Celebrating Young Writers in the Nelsonville-York City School District

NELSONVILLE, OH — August 30, 2025 — Monday Creek Publishing LLC is proud to announce the winners of the 16th Annual Buckeye Creative Writing Contest, showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity of students in the Nelsonville-York City School District. The contest, facilitated by Debby Sheskey, continues a long-standing tradition of encouraging young writers to share their unique voices and perspectives.

This year’s entries reflected a remarkable range of imagination, insight, and storytelling skill. Students submitted original works, each piece demonstrating the vibrant literary spirit within the district.

Winners: Myra Bean, 4^th Grade; Alina Morris, 4^th Grade; Karlena Cunningham, 7^th Grade; Mason Mash 11^th Grade.

“We are continually inspired by the creativity and courage these students show in putting their words into the world,” said district librarian, Nancy Smathers. “Their work reminds us that storytelling is alive and thriving in our community.”

Monday Creek Publishing extends heartfelt thanks to the panel of volunteer judges, whose thoughtful reading and feedback helped make this event possible. Judges include Bobbijo Tabler, Timothy Verba, Libby Watkins, Jennifer Stine, and Glennda Tingle. Special appreciation is also given to school administrators, teachers, and staff for their unwavering support in fostering a love of writing among students.

The Buckeye Creative Writing Contest remains a cornerstone of the district’s commitment to arts and literacy, offering young authors the opportunity to be recognized for their craft and to see their work celebrated by peers, educators, and the wider community.

For more information about the contest email Debby Sheskey bcwc16@gmail.com.

About Monday Creek Publishing LLC Monday Creek Publishing LLC is dedicated to promoting local voices, fostering creativity, and building community through the written word. From publishing regional authors to supporting educational initiatives, the company champions storytelling in all its forms. www.mondaycreekpublishing.com.

For previous winners and more photos, visit our Facebook Album here! 

Gathering Words: A Poetry Workshop with Wendy McVicker

 

    Join us for an inspiring morning of poetic exploration with Ohio’s Premier Poet, Wendy McVicker. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or simply curious about the magic of language, Gathering Words is a welcoming space to reflect, create, and connect.

    In Gathering Words, Wendy McVicker guides participants through the art of attentive listening—to the world, to memory, and to the quiet stirrings within. Through gentle prompts, shared readings, and open conversation, you’ll uncover the poetry waiting in your own voice. This workshop celebrates the joy of discovery, the power of metaphor, and the beauty of saying just enough.

    Expect a blend of writing, reflection, and community. Bring a notebook, a pen, and your curiosity. No prior experience required—just a willingness to gather words and see where they lead.

To Register Email mondaycreekpublishing@gmail.com

Sponsored by Monday Creek Publishing LLC  - Buchtel, Ohio USA

Hocking Hills Book Fair: Upcoming Events September through December 2025

 

Meet new and seasoned authors at the Hocking Hills Book Fairs. 

Find books in your favorite genre! 

Talk with authors and see what's new in the literary world.

For Author Directories, visit our Facebook page:

(Note: Author Directories continue to evolve!)

Logan Theater, Logan, September 20 

Elks Lodge, Nelsonville, October 4

Hocking Hills Resort, Logan, November 15

The Dairy Barn, Athens, December 13

Lafayette Hotel, Marietta, December 20

Hocking Hills Book Fair Facebook

Email: hhillsbookfair@gmail.com

Sponsored by Monday Creek Publishing LLC

Kathy Trace: Editor of “Young Voices From a Small Town” - Championing Local Stories and Nurturing Tomorrow’s Writers

 

Kathy Trace at the Hocking Hills Book Fair
The Dairy Barn, Athens, Ohio, December 2024

Kathy Trace is an accomplished editor, educator, and literary advocate best known for her work with the anthology “Young Voices From a Small Town: A Collection of Essays.” Through her role as editor, Trace has amplified the narratives of youth in Trimble Township, Trimble, Ohio, giving voice to a new generation of storytellers while strengthening the fabric of her rural community. As the guiding force behind the Tomcat Bridgebuilders initiative, she has dedicated her career to creating opportunities for young people to express themselves, build confidence, and engage with the world beyond their township.

Kathy Trace’s story is deeply entwined with that of Trimble Township, a patchwork of small towns and close-knit neighborhoods in southeastern Ohio. Her commitment to the community is the backbone of her editorial vision. Having lived and worked in the area for much of her life, Trace understands the unique rhythms, challenges, and rich histories that define rural Ohio. She recognizes that every small town harbors a wealth of stories—often overlooked beyond its borders—which deserve to be brought to light.

Welcome, Kathy!

GM: What inspired the initial concept for Young Voices from a Small Town? 

KT: Students wrote stories for Red Ribbon Week and the board noted how much thought the students had put into their stories and recognized the need to let the community know how the drugs were impacting our youth.

GM: What was your role in shaping the final structure of the book? 

KT: I assisted in keeping the development of the book on track and moving forward.

GM: Can you describe your editorial approach when working with young writers? How did you balance preserving their authentic voices with refining the text?

KT: We edited the book but did not change their message or authenticity.  For example, we deleted information that could identify the child, specific family information.

GM: Was there an essay that surprised you or shifted your perspective during the editing process? If so, what made it stand out?

KT: I am personally aware of the devastation that illegal substances can cause and see the effect all the time but reading these very personal stories from a child's perspective were eye opening to the personal suffering through their eyes.

GM: How did the small-town setting influence the tone or themes of the essays? Did you notice recurring motifs or concerns unique to that environment?

KT: Our community is caring and youth supporting but the substance abuse was destroying the area.

GM: What challenges did you face in compiling and editing the book? Were there any unexpected hurdles or rewarding breakthroughs?

KT: As a volunteer group we struggled with having the time to dedicate to the project. However we got this done.

GM: How do you hope readers—especially those from small towns—will connect with the collection? What impact do you envision it having?

KT: Our hope is that they will recognize the problem and establish the support to increase awareness and provide encouragement for treatment and recovery.

GM: Looking ahead, do you see this project as part of a larger series or movement? Are there plans to continue amplifying young voices in future publications?

KT: Yes we are working on Volume 2 at this time. We believe this gives our youth the voice to tell their story.

Connect...
Website: www.tcbridgebuilders.org
Tomcat BridgeBuilders on Facebook

A Powerful Message From Young Voices: An Interview with Becky Handa

Tomcat BridgeBuilders: Becky Handa and Diana Chalfant

 A Powerful Message From Young Voices: An Interview with Becky Handa

 

On July 6, 2024, Tomcat Bridgebuilders released their best-selling book of student essays, Young Voices From a Small Town. They have sold over 1,000 books through their effort to support drug-free communities in southeastern Ohio. Through profound student essays, they inspire others to commit to a drug-free environment where students thrive, focus on the good, and believe they can make an impact by being a young voice with a powerful message.

 

Becky Handa serves as the Director of Tomcat Bridgebuilders, an organization working to support students’ academic and community engagement. Bridgebuilders operates nationally with the goal of encouraging youth to make healthy choices.

 

Welcome, Becky!

 

GM: What inspired the creation of the book "Young Voices From a Small Town"?

BH: It all started with an intention to get students more involved during Red Ribbon Week at Trimble school. I announced to all students’ 4^th-8^th grade if they wanted to write an essay about why it is important to be drug free and live in a drug free community, they could be entered to win a prize at Friday’s assembly that week. What I wasn’t expecting was the overwhelming response of personal stories children chose to share about how substance abuse has affected their life.  During the week of essay writing, I observed peer connection, vulnerability, resilience, and empowerment. The staff were interested and wanted to read the student essays the kids and it became clear that their voices needed to be heard. 

 

GM: How did you select the children who contributed to this project?

BH: The building I serve is preschool through eighth grade. For this project I thought it was most appropriate for grade 4^th-8^th to participate. Any student who wrote an essay had the opportunity to have their essay in the book if a parent or guardian gave permission. Parental Consent was the most challenging pieces of this project. 

 

GM: Can you share a memorable moment or story from the book's creation process?

BH: I absolutely loved this entire project but my most memorable moment was watching the transformation of our students and staff in the building. The project inspired change, reduced stigma and shame around Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder and brought our small community closer. 

 

GM: What are some of the key challenges faced when promoting a drug-free lifestyle among youth?

BH: Key Challenges are, accessibility of drugs, breaking the family cycle, healthy coping skills with at risk populations facing much adversity, peer influence, impulsive decision making, conforming to what youth believe to be normal or trending.  

 

GM: How do you believe this book will impact the children who participated and the broader community?

BH: I believe sharing our lived experiences aloud can be therapeutic. Knowing we aren’t alone in the struggles we face. Empowering children that their voice matters, and they can change their future and their community’s future. The book raises awareness that our young people watch us and what we do matters whether the impact is positive or negative.

 

GM: In what ways does Bridgebuilders support the local school district and its students?

BH: The Tomcat Bridgebuilders provides annual scholarships to Trimble High School students. We have an internship program for high school students to promote career readiness and the importance of giving back to your community through service projects. We also provide mini-grants to support healthy youth activities like After Prom, Model UN, archery, band, athletics, social-emotional groups, weekend food bag programs, provide free books for literacy night and after school programs.  We are also the primary funder of Red Ribbon Week for the entire district and promote data driven resources like OH YES survey to know how to best support the students. 

 

GM: How do you measure the success and effectiveness of your initiatives, like this book?

BH: We have a survey on our website and hand out the survey to our community partners and Trimble school staff. Part of our mini-grant process is for a representative of the group to come speak to the TBB board at our monthly meetings to provide feedback and discuss successes and/or struggles of the project we sponsored. 

 

GM: What future projects or goals do you have for the Bridgebuilders organization?

BH: The Tomcat Bridgebuilders has a goal to one day have a second volume of Young Voices from a Small Town book. The goal is to have even more youth involvement, so not only the youth being the author but the illustrator of the cover page and help make discissions on the structure of the book. We want the kids to feel ownership of the book because it is their book, they are the authors, creators, and inspiration for change.

 

GM: How can community members get involved or support the work that Bridgebuilders is doing?

BH: The Tomcat Bridgebuilders have community meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm at the Glouster Library except for the month of July. They can also check out our website www.tcBridgebuilders.org or find us on Facebook at Tomcat Bridgebuilders. 

 

GM: What message would you like to share with the youth of Trimble Township who may be struggling with peer pressure and making healthy choices?

BH: “Peer pressure is actually the pressure you put on yourself!” Be confident in who you are and what you want! Being your unique self is when you are most beautiful! If it feels wrong find a safe way out of the situation. Talk to a person you trust for support.

 

Connect with Becky…

Buy the Book Young Voices From a Small Town

Website: Tomcat Bridgebuilders

Facebook: Tomcat Bridgebuilders

Insta: Tomcat Bridgebuilders 

Media: WOUB Interview